Essay On Self Determination

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The second issue that I identified, relates to autonomy or self-determination. I struggled with labelling this fundamental concept in the social work discipline. My first blatant encounter with this issue occurred during the week of September 14th while I was attending a vigil. The patient was actively dying and requested that his spouse turn on the television. Initially she refused, she feared that it would agitate him and prevent him from resting. Since the patient was diagnosed with cancer rather than dementia, I felt that he was aware of what he was asking for and knew what he wanted. I directed by questions towards his spouse, because I did not want her to feel like I was trying to override her rules. I asked her if he normally watches …show more content…

In which health care professionals have instituted “client-centered” or “person-centered” practices in their medical practice. According to the Medical and Health Service Act of 1985, health care providers must provide quality care “ based on respect for patient self-determination and integrity,” (Ekelund, Dahlin-Ivanoff, & Eklund, 2014, p.118). The authors of the article address the issue that self-determination for older adults often have little to no control over their decision making. They are often influenced intentionally or unintentionally by other’s opinions. Therefore, the authors address the discriminatory feelings that others have towards older adults, especially those who have lost control over their bodily or cognitive functions. It is important to be aware of these issues of discrimination in order to remind providers of their professional values and legal responsibility to treat the patients with respect and integrity (Ekelund et al., …show more content…

In which health care professionals have instituted “client-centered” or “person-centered” practices in their medical practice. According to the Medical and Health Service Act of 1985, health care providers must provide quality care “ based on respect for patient self-determination and integrity,” (Ekelund, Dahlin-Ivanoff, & Eklund, 2014, p.118). The authors of the article address the issue that self-determination for older adults often have little to no control over their decision making. They are often influenced intentionally or unintentionally by other’s opinions. Therefore, the authors address the discriminatory feelings that others have towards older adults, especially those who have lost control over their bodily or cognitive functions. It is important to be aware of these issues of discrimination in order to remind providers of their professional values and legal responsibility to treat the patients with respect and integrity (Ekelund et al.,

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