Define the scope of the ethical issue. Examine the scope of the issue as it relates to nursing and   principles identified in codes of ethics.

The ethical issue in question involves a nurse practitioner’s obligation to provide treatment to a patient regardless of their sexual orientation. The scope of the issue is both broad and narrow. On the one hand it stresses the importance for health workers to treat everyone equally, while on the other acknowledging that some circumstances may require a different approach. On the flip side, codes of ethics identify principles that must be considered such as autonomy and maintaining professional boundaries.

As nurses, we are faced with several questions that concern how best to provide care to patients who might not be able to identify in traditional gender roles and may hold different views than those accepted within the society. In addition, our duty as health care providers is to ensure everyone can access quality healthcare without discrimination. Examining this issue ethically helps us understand the implications of such decisions on both patient and provider relationships, as well as any legal issues which may arise.

It is up to every nurse practitioner how they approach situations of this nature in the future. By following ethical codes, we can make sure that all patients receive adequate care despite disagreements, creating a safe environment for them and others.