Position Paper
NURS 333 – Clinical Management of the Growing Family
Purpose of Assignment:
To examine a controversial or politically or publicly debated women’s health, obstetric or neonatal issue and present both sides equally.
Student Approach to Assignment:
In order to complete this assignment I took an unbiased approach to the ethical issues surrounding cesarean by maternal request. This is an ethical concern because bodily autonomy and beneficence are central to nursing ethics and clash in this scenario. Both positive and negative outcomes are presented equally and supported by research.
Rationale for Inclusion of this Assignment in the Student Portfolio:
This assignment is included as a required component of my portfolio and demonstrates the ability to think critically about an issue, as well as displays my commitment to professional ethics. Understanding of all sides of the argument are paramount when considering ethical decisions. Within the body of paper I satisfy the following Old Dominion School of Nursing End-of-Program-Outcomes in accordance with their accrediting body:
Research
Applies research-based knowledge from nursing as the basis for culturally sensitive practice
Example: Within this paper I discuss cultural beliefs that may influence the election of vaginal or cesarean delivery. While this paper considers birth and maternal outcomes, the lessons can be applied to any patient selection. When providing care for patients I always consider their beliefs, customs, and traditions, and try to unearth the reason for their choices.
Culture
Integrates knowledge of cultural diversity in performing nursing interventions
Example: How women culturally view motherhood can play a large role in determining their choices surrounding birth and postpartum. When a patient’s culture is fully understood, the nurse knows how to advocate for them and how to handle situations that may conflict with their views. In this paper, I explore options when births do not go according to plan and the emotions that can elicit in new mothers. By understanding the degree of importance their views on motherhood affect them, I am able to provide culturally competent care and interventions.
Considers the impact of research outcomes and, the effects of health and social policies, on persons from diverse backgrounds
Example: Within this paper I discuss that cultural beliefs surrounding cesarean sections may lead women to refuse one even when they are medically necessary. Combined with the mistrust some races and backgrounds feel for medicine/medical communities, research that explains the benefits of c-section may be viewed as biased. Conversely, women that were interested in cesarean may feel they have additional support to advocate for themselves. This can lead to poorer maternal/fetal outcomes, and in turn overreaching social and political change that interrupt a woman’s autonomy.