Ethical deliberation in health: an integrative literature review

Abstract

Working in the health field requires that professionals master means and tools for resolving the ethical dilemmas they face. We conducted an integrative review of the literature in health-related databases. We included original research articles, reports of experience, theoretical studies, case studies and editorials, in English, Spanish and Portuguese carried out with healthcare teams that included nurses. The review covered 28 studies, published between 1999 and 2013. The analysis yielded four categories: concept of deliberation; strategies of deliberation; contributions of deliberation, and facilitators of implemention of the deliberation process. We concluded that deliberation is a useful and relevant strategy for health teams in the analysis, assessment and indication of the best course of action in problem solving. It is also an instrument of continuing education for professionals through mutual exchange of experience and dialogue about values, beliefs and principles.