Ethical Considerations of Pharmaceutical Colonialism

Abstract

The complexity of the ethical issue being depicted is one that has transcended generations, bringing light to issues such as human rights, distributive justice, and the worldly effects of globalization. The subject termed "pharmaceutical colonialism" is in part characterized by the colonization of developing countries in efforts of contributing to the sphere of pharmaceutical knowledge. The purpose of this descriptive essay is to enhance the readers knowledge of ethical considerations of importance to nursing regarding the conduct of clinical trials in developing countries. One of the most relevant nursing implications of this ethically, controversial issue is that of cultural awareness. It is critical for nurses to be informed not only about the health care in their own country, but health care policies, or lack thereof, in other countries. As a result, it is our duty as nurses to be aware of the cultural differences that may arise when presenting a document of informed consent to the patient, and to allow for any interventions, such as a translator, to be present in order to ensure that the patient not only understands the procedure, but also alternative treatments, side effects, and expected outcomes.