The Right to Choose - Upholding Patient Autonomy Within Structural Constraints
Yesterday I went to work and noticed that there were flyers up for a memorial service for a client. I later learned from a co-worker that this client died earlier in the week. I found out that this client had broken some bones in an accident and made the decision to not seek medical treatment. I was unclear about what exactly led to their death but I assume it was related to the fractures and complications related to their compromised health status. This is the first client that I have personally known, in my almost 5 years in nursing, that has died. Working in mental health and addictions I know that there are definitely clients that I have cared for who have died. Past Experiences with Death in Care When I worked as a care-aide during the first part of my nursing undergrad degree I cared for a patient who was actively dying. I was there when there family arrived to say their goodbyes. I participated in the process of wrapping the body. But this experience was different, this was...