Introduction
As practitioners in the field of speech-language pathology, understanding the concept of moral distress is crucial, especially when providing online therapy services to schools. The study titled What is ‘moral distress’ in nursing? A feminist empirical bioethics study by Morley et al. (2019) provides valuable insights that can be applied to our practice. This blog will explore the findings of this study and discuss how they can be implemented to improve outcomes for children in online therapy settings.
Understanding Moral Distress
Moral distress occurs when a practitioner knows the right course of action but is constrained by institutional barriers, leading to psychological distress. The study by Morley et al. (2019) expands on this definition by identifying various moral events that contribute to moral distress, such as moral tension, uncertainty, constraint, conflict, and dilemmas. These events can cause a range of emotions, including anger, frustration, guilt, and sadness.
Implications for Speech-Language Pathologists
Understanding moral distress is essential for speech-language pathologists, especially those working in online therapy settings. Here are some ways to apply the findings from the study to improve practice:
- Recognize Moral Events: Be aware of situations that may cause moral distress, such as conflicts between institutional policies and the best interests of the child.
- Emotional Awareness: Identify emotions associated with moral distress to better understand and address the underlying moral events.
- Open Communication: Foster an environment where practitioners can openly discuss ethical concerns without fear of retribution.
- Develop Support Systems: Create support networks for practitioners to share experiences and strategies for managing moral distress.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides a comprehensive understanding of moral distress, further research is needed to explore its impact on speech-language pathologists and the children they serve. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in research initiatives to better understand the nuances of moral distress in their specific contexts.
Conclusion
By implementing the insights from the study on moral distress, speech-language pathologists can enhance their practice and create better outcomes for children. Understanding and addressing moral distress is a step towards more ethical and effective therapy services.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: What is ‘moral distress’ in nursing? A feminist empirical bioethics study.
