The following are guidelines for using knowledge of the concepts of the theory of goal attainment and of the transaction process together with the code for nurses and standards of clinical nursing practice:
1. Assist patient and family determine the key values in the situation and persuade them to contemplate within their value system as well as the outcomes of action they choose to undertake in the situation.
2. Assist patient and family in making decisions by reflecting on their value system based on the information that you provide; stress on their circumstances as expressed by them; however, avoid making decisions for them.
3. Try to be skillful in determining choices in each nursing situation and search these with the patient and family.
4. Determine those components in the situation that can be controlled and changed as well as those which cannot; focus your efforts and energy on change and control.
5. Issues on ethical may occur in considering (a) right to life, (b) right to die, and (c) right to information to be informed.
Employing knowledge of the concepts in the theory of goal attainment and in the transaction process will enable nurses focus on the fact that each and individual must be treated with respect as human beings of equal importance who have their own set of personal values. Fundamental theoretical knowledge is key in undertaking responsibility in making ethical decisions in healthcare and nursing.
Reference:
King, I.M. (1999). A Theory of Goal Attainment: Philosophical and Ethical Implications. Nursing Science Quarterly, 12(4), 292–296.
