Reference no: EM132469390

Mr. Sussman, 80 years old, was admitted to the neuroscience unit after suffering a left hemispheric bleed. He had a total right hemiplegia and was completely nonresponsive, with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 8. He had been on IV fluids for 4 days, and the question was raised of placing a jejunostomy tube for enteral feedings. The older of his two children asked what were the chances of his recovery. The physician explained that Mr. Sussman's current state was probably the best he could attain but that "miracles happen every day" and stated that tests could help in determining the prognosis. The family asked that these tests be performed. After the results were available, the physician explained that the prognosis was grave and that IV fluids were insufficient to sustain life. The jejunostomy tube would be a necessity if the family wished to continue with food and fluids. After the physician left, the family asked the nurse who had been with Mr. Sussman during the previous 3 days, "If this was your father, what would you do?" This situation became an ethical dilemma for the nurse as well.

1) If you were the nurse, what would you say to the family and why? Be specific in exactly what you say and the rationale.

Depending on your answer, what would be the ethical principles/morals that you might violate? State specifically and give the rationale for each answer.