Week 2 ethical health promotion paper
Introduction:
Health promotion-related issues are highly ethical and demand the utmost attention and responsibility from health care professionals. One such issue is the ethical dilemma surrounding the consent process for human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. In this paper, I will summarize the issue and provide my thoughts on the role of health care professionals in resolving it. I will also refer to specific ethical codes and theories to support my position.
Summary of the Issue:
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a highly infectious sexually transmitted virus that can lead to the development of several types of cancer, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and head and neck cancers. The HPV vaccine is highly effective in preventing the transmission of the virus and the subsequent development of cancer. However, the consent process for HPV vaccination has become an ethical issue, especially when it comes to vaccinating minors.
There is a debate surrounding the consent process for HPV vaccination for minors. Some argue that the decision to vaccinate should be left to the parents or guardians, while others argue that minors should have the right to make their own decisions regarding vaccination. Health care professionals find themselves in the middle of this ethical dilemma, trying to balance the rights of parents and minors and ensure that they are providing the best care possible.
Thoughts on the Role of Health Care Professionals:
Health care professionals have a crucial role to play in resolving the ethical issue surrounding HPV vaccination. They must be ethical and ensure that they are providing the best care possible while respecting the rights of patients and their families.
The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics provides guidance for nurses in such ethical dilemmas. One of the key provisions of the code is that nurses must advocate for the rights of patients and their families. In the case of HPV vaccination, this means advocating for informed consent for both parents and minors. Nurses must provide all relevant information regarding the vaccine, including its benefits and potential side effects. They must also respect the right of minors to make their own decisions regarding vaccination, provided they are mature enough to make such decisions.
The ethical theory of utilitarianism is also relevant to this issue. Utilitarianism argues that actions should be taken that result in the greatest good for the greatest number of people. In the case of HPV vaccination, health care professionals must ensure that they are promoting the greatest good by advocating for vaccination and providing relevant information.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the ethical dilemma surrounding HPV vaccination is complex and demands careful consideration from health care professionals. The ANA Code of Ethics and the ethical theory of utilitarianism provide guidance on how health care professionals can best navigate this issue. Ultimately, health care professionals must ensure that they are advocating for the rights of patients and their families while promoting the greatest good possible.