The objective of this assignment is to explore and critically analyze the legal and ethical dilemmas that registered nurses may encounter when administering medications in a healthcare setting. This assignment aims to promote an understanding of the complexities surrounding medication administration by registered nurses and to encourage students to think critically about the ethical and legal implications of their actions in their professional practice.
1. Read about the case of RaDonda Vaught on the internet and describe the safety mechanisms that failed or were bypassed that resulted in patient harm.
2. Do a web search and find a legal or ethical issue in the news recently (last 5 years) surrounding registered nurses and medication administration that does not involve the case in #1. This could be about a medication error, ethical dilemma, or legal case involving nurses and medication administration.
3. Complete the body of your paper including the following sections:
Introduction: Begin your assignment with a concise introduction that provides an overview of the importance of medication administration and the role of registered nurses in this process. Explain the significance of understanding the legal and ethical aspects of this responsibility.
Legal & Ethical Connection: Describe the legal or ethical connections in the example you find and where there may be room for improvement in nursing practice and safety.
Future Practice: Explain how reading about the article you find and the case of RaDonda Vaught, has an impact on your future nursing practice.
Conclusion: Summarize the key legal and ethical challenges related to medication administration by registered nurses. Discuss the importance of nurses’ awareness of these issues and the potential consequences of not adhering to legal and ethical standards, incorporating information from the news articles into your paper.