I am attending a workshop on how to function effectively where moral dissonance exists.  Moral dissonance exists when what you are hearing or being asked to do is in conflict with your moral beliefs.  You will notice the people in the picture I have chosen have concerned contemplative expressions on their faces, rather than expressions of joy.  I would love life if every encounter I faced was one of joy!!  The truth is that is an unrealistic expectation.

For some patients and their families the option that is advocated by the physicians is not one they can easily embrace because of their moral beliefs.   Some amount of conflict arises in these situations.  The training I am receiving this week will help me listen to the patient and/or family express their dilemma and then allow me to help them look at the option that is being suggested by the physician and the option they are looking at that comes from their own thought processes.  The ideal outcome is not to force anyone into making a decision they are morally against.  The outcome is to help people think about the decision from a different perspective and in some cases include facts and beliefs in the discussion that up to this point have not been included.

By listening and responding in an atmosphere that affirms the moral values of the patient and/or family, the goal is to help them make the best care plan decision possible given the specific circumstances of the illness and treatment options that are available.