Ethical dilemmas

The project aimed to develop an ethical framework that can be used in the design and implementation of self-management interventions. In order to identify possible dilemmas a qualitative study consisting of semi-structured interviews was conducted. Six experts on self-management and medical ethics and 15 nurses participated. Nurses providing self-management support face three types of ethical dilemmas: respecting patient autonomy versus reaching optimal health outcomes, respecting patient autonomy versus stimulating patient involvement, and a holistic approach to self-management support versus safeguarding professional boundaries. The studies’ results were translated into a practical guide for professional practice and nursing education. This guide provides a helping hand for team discussion and moral deliberation about such dilemmas and suggests some useful strategies to help them in their self-management support.