The importance of truth-telling in health care
Intended for healthcare professionals
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The importance of truth-telling in health care

Steven P Collis Staff nurse, Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

This article explores whether deception is ever justifiable in health care. It examines the concepts of truth-telling and deception. Possible reasons for the recent interest in truth-telling in health care are offered, including issues associated with deceiving patients. Wider arguments supporting and opposing deception in health care are considered before suggested alternatives to the use of deception in patient care are outlined.

Nursing Standard. 20, 17, 41-45. doi: 10.7748/ns.20.17.41.s55

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