Employer: Managing Personal and Professional Obligations in a Pandemic

Q. The nurses are concerned about balancing their work and family obligations, especially if a dependent family member gets ill. What is the nurse’s duty to provide care to clients in these circumstances? 

A. This is a tough question and there is no clear answer or one best solution to this ethical dilemma. The best action is for everyone to be prepared. Consider the following: 

  • Discuss your staff’s concerns and help them create a plan to manage possible situations.
  • Ensure they have access to the most current information related to the outbreak to help them make evidence informed decisions.
  • Help them use their code of ethics and standards of practice to guide their planning and actions.
  • Help them identify other resources such as EAP, OH&S and extended family that may be able to provide support.
  • Identify what supports may be offered by the employer.
  • Encourage ongoing dialogue and frequent evaluation of their plans.


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