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  • Essay / The Importance of Paternalism in Healthcare - 1363

    The right to make autonomous decisions is an important human right from birth. But sometimes, an individual's poor decision-making capacity has consequences for their well-being. In health care, one such example is the forced admission of psychiatric clients to mental asylums. Forced admission includes the violation of autonomy in order to benefit the client by promoting beneficence and resulting in paternalism. The patient's choice to voluntarily enter the hospital or, alternatively, refuse admission is of critical importance. Due to the violation of integrity, self-determination and autonomy, the client suffers from a low level of satisfaction and legal disabilities. But on the other hand, treatment implied by coercion improves outcomes compared to those obtained without (coercive) intervention. The underlying belief is that patients suffering from substance abuse and mental disorders are incapable of understanding their treatment needs, thus justifying paternalism as a well-intentioned interference in a person's freedom of action (Høyer, Kjellin , Engberg, Kaltiala-Heino, Nilstun, Sigurjonsdottir & Syse, 2002). This article will discuss the case scenario, some ethical principles, different constraints, possible solutions and evaluation of these solutions according to ethical concepts and principles. As a healthcare provider, I encountered a patient who verbalized feelings of worthlessness and low esteem due to his forceful attitude. admission to a psychiatric environment. During an interview with a client, he told me that he was admitted here for his addiction problem and symptoms of schizophrenia. When I inquired, I learned that he was becoming violent and hurting others and his family, which is why they wanted him to be treated. According to the client, he cannot be forcibly admitted to a psychiatric setting...... middle of paper ......iority. Paternalism remains at the heart of my scenario. But on the other hand, some theorists suggest that shared decision making is more compatible (Charles, Ghafni, & Whelan, 1997). This emphasizes active patient participation in decision-making related to the treatment plan. The patient was therefore forcibly admitted to a psychiatric facility, but it is important that health care providers now attempt to mutually plan for his future treatment. This will help increase the patient's self-esteem and compliance with treatment. Overall, a forced admission could be a painful experience for an individual as their right to autonomy is disrupted. But in times of patient well-being, paternalism is important. However, the patient's sense of dignity can be improved by informing them later and of the importance of taking into account coercion and paternalistic approach..