Competency Assessment:

This competency assessment evaluates the following Outcome(s):

• NU506M1-1: Analyze theoretical frameworks and concepts related to ethical dilemmas in the advanced practice role.
• PC-2.3: Demonstrate integrity through the application of relevant codes of conduct and social responsibility within one’s profession.

Canada is the first country to permit Nurse Practitioners to provide euthanasia. Assisted dying legislation has been introduced in healthcare systems in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

From the perspectives of your nursing practice specialization (Nurse Executive Leader, Nurse Practitioner, and Nurse Educator), propose both a Pro and Con decision for nurses to consider as they reflect upon the law, ethics, and morals in relation to their participation in euthanasia—a contemporary societal issue of significant importance for nursing practice.

Directions:

1. Write an introduction to euthanasia, highlighting the differences between legal, ethical, and moral issues.
2. Identify the laws of your state and country pertaining to euthanasia.
3. Construct a Pro decision to permit the APN/APRN to provide euthanasia, which includes the following:
   • Select an ethical or moral theory that reflects your thought process.
   • Integrate ethical or moral principles defending the decision.
4. Construct a Con decision to permit the APN/APRN to provide euthanasia, which includes the following:
   • Select an ethical or moral theory that reflects your thought process.
   • Integrate ethical or moral principles defending the decision.
5. Select relevant American Nurses Association (ANA) or your specialty nursing association codes of ethics that apply to the APN/APRN role.
6. Take an ethical or moral stance based upon your Pro or Con decision, addressing how your stance will impact population health.
7. Provide recommendations to address APN/APRN moral distress, supporting ethical conduct in practice and scholarship.