NEW YORK – Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) today commended the American Nurses Association (ANA) for honoring a nurse who refused to take part in the unethical and criminal practice of force-feeding detainees on hunger strike at Guantánamo Bay.
“We commend the American Nurses Association for honoring the Guantánamo Navy nurse for his exceptional commitment to medical ethics in refusing to force-feed his patients,” said Dr. Vincent Iacopino, PHR’s medical director. “Bestowing a prestigious ethics award on the nurse not only confirms he followed his profession’s highest ethical standards, but also sets an example that all health professionals should follow.”
The ANA will present its Year of Ethics award to the nurse’s attorney during its membership meeting in Washington, D.C. tomorrow. The nurse, who has not identified himself publicly, is being recognized for honoring his duty to the patient, the ANA said. For nearly a year, the nurse faced possible discharge from the U.S. Navy and denial of retirement and veterans benefits for refusing to force-feed detainees. In May, the Navy decided not to discharge him.