Page 130 - Human Rights

Faculty of Nursing
Adult care Nursing Department

However, such behavior must never be used to justify abuse or neglect. Instead, it highlights the

need for specialized training in dementia care, communication strategies, and non-violent de-

escalation techniques.

A particularly serious ethical issue arises when staff take actions they regard as “euthanasia”
without the knowledge, consent, or legal authorization of the elderly person concerned.

Such actions represent severe breaches of medical ethics, professional codes of conduct, and

international human rights standards, including the right to life and the right to informed consent.

4.4.3 Expanded Role of Nurses in Protecting Elderly Patients

Nurses have a central role in preventing, identifying, and responding to violence against elderly

patients. Their responsibilities include continuous assessment of physical and mental health,
careful documentation of injuries or signs of neglect, and timely reporting of suspected abuse

through appropriate legal and professional channels.

Nurses are also ethical guardians of elderly patients’ rights.

They must ensure respect for dignity, autonomy, privacy, and informed consent in all aspects of

care. When elderly patients lack decision-making capacity, nurses should advocate for decisions
that reflect the patient’s best interests and previously expressed wishes.

Education is another critical nursing role.

Nurses can educate families, informal caregivers, and institutional staff about age-related changes,
stress management, ethical caregiving, and the prevention of elder abuse.

Promoting awareness reduces stigma and improves the quality of care provided to older people.

In institutional settings, nurses should advocate for safe staffing levels, proper supervision, and a

culture of transparency and accountability.

119 Academic Year 2025/2026