MARIE - VALUES SNAPSHOT

Marie, a 40yr old married woman has been admitted to the day case surgical ward. Marie suffers with anxiety and depression and is awaiting elective surgery to explore and repair a suspected torn medial meniscus (knee fibrocartilage tissue). She has been dropped off by her husband since she will be unable to drive after general anaesthetic.

Due to unforeseen circumstances within the theatre department, Marie suffers a long wait prior to surgery. Marie eventually becomes frustrated at what she perceives to be a lack of progress and communication about when she will be taken for her operation. Suddenly, after waiting 4 hours, Marie gets up from her chair and limps purposefully down the corridor, stating angrily that she is '..sick of waiting..' and wants to '...go outside for a cigarette.'

The hospital Trust in which you work as a health professional operates a no smoking policy within its buildings and grounds.

The hospital has very large grounds and to leave the grounds entirely would require at least a 15 minute, painful walk for Marie.

What would you do? Would you support Marie in her desire to smoke nearby the hospital entrance, or would you take steps to prevent her?

IMAGE SOURCE: http://blogs.reuters.com/photographers-blog/2013/11/28/defiant-smokers-of-london/