When an ethical dilemma occurs on your unit, can you resolve the dilemma by taking a vote?

• A. Yes, voting resolves conflicts
• B. No, because an ethical dilemma involves resolution of conflicting values and principles rather than simply what people want to do
• C. Sometimes, depending on the situation
• D. Only if a majority agrees

Answer: (B)

Ethical dilemmas arise when there are conflicting values or principles about what is best for a patient, and the way to resolve them is through principled ethical reasoning—not majority preferences. In nursing practice, decisions should be guided by core ethical principles (autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice), professional codes, and applicable laws. Voting would reflect what the majority wants rather than which course upholds ethical duties or protects patient rights, and it may overlook the nuances of individual patient needs. Therefore, you cannot resolve an ethical dilemma simply by taking a vote; you need careful ethical analysis and, if needed, consultation with ethics resources to reach a principled decision. While input from the team is valuable, the final course should align with ethical obligations and professional standards rather than crowd opinion.