Vaccination In Nursing

It is perceived the United States and Canada generate much of their attention and controversy to mandate vaccines for certain populations. There have been public debates concerning the safety, effectiveness and the value of vaccines in both Canada and the United States (Schwartz, 2013). This is why some people argue we must protect those who do not have the capability to fight off disease on their own, these include; older residents over 65, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, and healthcare providers (HCP). The older population and other groups with compromising immunities are at greater risk to experience illness and infection that may be fatal (Gould, 2011). However, some nurses argue immunization ; such as the flu shot, should

Following the ethical dilemma for nurses to receive or not to receive vaccinations is described in the CNA code of ethics which says that nurses are to promote health and well-being, “Nurses provide care directed first and foremost toward the health and well-being of the person, family, or community in their care.” (CNA, 2008) This ethical value falls under the nursing value of beneficence which nurses pledge to never cause any sort of harm (Beauchamp, 2010). It is a nurse’s job to inform and educate clients on the risks of disease and infection, and the prevention or use of vaccination. With refusal to vaccination “nurses have to recognize, respect and promote a person’s right to be informed and make decisions.” This also falls under the nursing principle of autonomy, which explains to have respect for that person to make their own decisions. (Beauchamp, 2010). If a resident refuses immunization treatment the nurse must respect the informed decision of a capable person, including their choice of lifestyle and treatment to non conductive care (CNA,

Nurses are considered professionals and professionalism is defined as the skill, and good judgment that is expected from a person who is trained to do a job well. The general public respects nurses and therefore a high level of professionalism is expected when working with clients. Nurses have to be aware of the ethical values and nursing principles such as: beneficence and autonomy, to help them make an ethical choice. These values fall under the ethical principles of promoting health and well-being, and respect the decisions people make. Vaccinations is an on going dilemma because the decisions that are made by nurses’ effects populations differently, however, nurses must make choices that are reflective of the code of ethics, and principles for registered nurses. (CNA,