Title: Childbearing after menopause
The ethical issues presentation will address an ethical issue
associated with the practice of nursing. The issue selected for
discussion should have clearly identifiable pros and cons that, when
analyzed, will allow the student to form a defensible position related
to the issue. Principles from identified codes of ethics should be
examined in relationship to the issue and position.
The student should address the following: 1. Define the scope of the
ethical issue. 2. Examine the scope of the issue as it relates to
nursing and principles identified in codes of ethics. 3. Identify at least
2 positions taken on this issue by scholarly experts in the ethics
discipline. 4. Explore the future for the issue as it relates to nursing
practice.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Childbearing after menopause is a topic that poses various ethical issues when it comes to nursing practice. In this presentation, we will discuss the ethical dilemmas surrounding childbearing after menopause and examine the different positions taken by scholarly experts in the ethics discipline. Additionally, we will explore the future of this issue in nursing practice.
Answer:
1. The scope of the ethical issue in childbearing after menopause revolves around the safety and well-being of both the mother and the child. Women who wish to conceive after menopause may seek medical assistance like in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or utilize donor eggs to achieve pregnancy. However, this raises questions about the physical health of the mother, the potential psychological impact on the child, and how medical resources will be utilized.
2. The ethical issue of childbearing after menopause relates to the nursing profession as it involves providing care to the mother and child during pregnancy and delivery. It is essential to uphold the principles identified in codes of ethics like autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice in addressing this issue. Nursing professionals should prioritize the safety and well-being of both the mother and the child when providing care.
3. There are two positions taken on this issue by scholarly experts in the ethics discipline. The first position argues that mothers’ advanced age increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery, which could endanger both the mother and the child’s life. As such, they believe that healthcare professionals should discourage childbearing after menopause. The second position acknowledges that advanced maternal age poses certain risks, but it also recognizes that women have reproductive autonomy. As such, women have the right to conceive even after menopause using fertility treatments or donor eggs.
4. The future of this issue in nursing practice will continue to evolve as medical advancements are made. Healthcare professionals must remain up-to-date on the latest research and evidence-based practice guidelines to provide safe and ethical care to patients. Additionally, it is critical to promote patient education that takes into account the potential risks and benefits of childbearing after menopause. Finally, healthcare professionals must balance the ethical principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice to provide patient-centered care.
