The decisions nurses make to prioritize cases are essentially ethical questions about patient care and human needs.

A patient's son, who is her designated decision maker, refuses to let his terminally ill, semiconscious mother receive narcotics to manage her pain.

What should a nurse do when a 15-year-old presents with a sexually transmitted infection and doesn't want her parents to know?

Personal responsibility for the incompetent conduct of others is limited by the duty to protect patients' interests. Does the careless colleague clearly realize that she is failing to meet the standard of professional conduct? Has she been properly oriented to her position? The answers to these questions may well determine whether you and others hold her responsible.

Balancing HIPAA and family requests

Must we comply with an advance directive if it appears to conflict with the patient's best interests?

May I refuse to care for patients with AIDS by raising a conscientious objection?

When is it appropriate to break patient confidentiality?