Respond to two colleagues
Respond to two colleagues by sharing one benefit and one challenge to their approach.
1st Colleague\’s approach –
Post an explanation of how you would work with the patient in the case scenario while being respectful of their cultural beliefs and choices
Gloria Everly
Ms. Everly, an 84-year-old woman recently had a fall resulting in a hip fracture. The proposal for hip replacement surgery was presented to Ms. Everly and her son. Ms. Everly is a Jehovah’s witness, and her beliefs will not accept anesthesia or a blood transfusion. Her son supports her decision.
It is important for me to have a discussion with Ms. Everly and her son regarding the conversation with the surgeon. As her social worker, it my ethical responsibility to practice cultural competence. I would speak with Ms. Everly about her expressed beliefs. This would include assessing religion and spirituality. (Gehlert & Brown, 2019). I want to better understand Jehovah Witnesses’ beliefs and I recognize Ms. Everly to be the expert in this scenario. It would be clear to me how strongly Ms. Everly exercises her faith. This is something I would want to honor. I would express empathy with her, provide support, and and let her know that we are here to support her wishes. With this in mind, I would ask her if she had done an advance directive such as, five wishes. I would educate her on the importance of this document, what it entails, and how it helps the medical team honor her wishes. My goal would be for her to state her wishes plainly in the document. This exercises her right to self determination (NASW, 2021).
Include techniques for achieving buy-in from other team members
In this scenario, I would step in the role of educator and educate team members about Ms. Everly’s beliefs. I would remind the team of the importance to honor one’s wishes even if it differs from our own. I would ask for input on alternative modalities such as effective pain management to promote healing. (Gehlert & Brown, 2019).
Also address specific ways in which you would support the patient and family members throughout their care.
Throughout Ms. Everly’s care, I would ensure she and her son are aware of the risks and benefits of having the surgery vs. not having the surgery, and what to expect during the healing process. I would also connect them to a religious leader for support. I would remain available for any questions that may arise and coordinate appropriate interdisciplinary team members to ensure questions are answered. Being resourceful and available to the patient is essential during this process.
References
Gehlert, S., & Browne, T. (Eds.). (2019). Handbook of health social work (3rd ed.). Wiley.
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers.https://www.socialworkers.org/About/Ethics/Code-of-Ethics/Code-of-Ethics-EnglishLinks to an external site.
Walden University, LLC. (2022). Social work case studies. [Interactive media].
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