Friday, 30 September 2016

Compromised autonomy: when families pressure patients to change their wishes

Journal of Hospice and Palliative Nursing, Aug 2016, vol. 18, no. 4, p. 284-289
Blackler, Liz

When patients are unduly pressured by their families to make medical decisions that are not in line with previously held values, beliefs, or perspectives, autonomy is compromised. Decision making in the context of family involvement and relational autonomy will be explored along with effects of caregiver stressors, patient/family disagreements, and the nuances of substituted judgment. The article also discusses strategies for best working with and advocating for patients who are experiencing compromised autonomy.