Using the AACN Framework to Alleviate Moral Distress

Abstract

In this article the author describes a situation in which the Nurse Executive’s values were in direct opposition to those of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). She describes how it took considerable courage on the part of the Nurse Executive to resolve this situation by demonstrating concern and respect for a chemically impaired staff member, rather than by focusing on the situation from a strictly “right versus wrong” perspective. After describing the situation the author emphasizes the importance of the leadership role of the Nurse Executive and shares the perspective of the agency’s Chief Executive Officer. The author also explains how the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses’ Framework (4 A’s to Rise Above Moral Distress) was used as a resource to guide the Nurse Executive in moving the situation to a productive conclusion. Organizational outcomes of the situation are shared.