Medical Ethics and Professionalism – Extended Notes – Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Practice
DIAGNOSTIC RADIOGRAPHY · NTA LEVEL 4 · SEMESTER TWO Medical Ethics and Professionalism – Extended Notes – Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Practice CRT04209 · Medical Professional Ethics START READING NOTES Study Medical Ethics and Professionalism – Extended Notes – Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Practice using the sections below. Use the topic navigation to continue through Medical Professional Ethics. Medical Ethics and Professionalism – Extended Notes – Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Practice Ethical Dilemmas in Medical Practice Learning Objectives Define the term ethical dilemmas Explain the characteristic of ethical dilemmas Explain common ethical dilemmas Identify sources of ethical dilemmas Describe strategies used to solve ethical dilemmas Definition of Ethical Dilemmas and their Characteristics An ethical dilemma is a situation having two or more undesirable alternatives. It can also be defined as a confusing problem that offers a choice between equally unsatisfactory alternatives. An ethical dilemma is a situation that will often involve a conflict that brings questions on which to obey as they may have implications on each other Ethical dilemma addresses ethical questions of right vs. wrong. Characteristics of Ethical Dilemmas In order for a problem to be an ethical dilemma it must have three characteristics The problem cannot be solved using only empirical data (empirical data is information derived from observation/experiences) The problem must be so confusing that deciding what facts and data need to be used in making decision is difficult. The results of the problem must affect more than the immediate situation; and there should be far reaching effects. Common Ethical Dilemmas Common Ethical Dilemmas identify common ethical dilemmas in medical practice Dilemmas of Beneficence Involves deciding what is good as opposed to what is harmful. Often occurs when a clinician, patients, or family members disagree about what course of action is in the best interest of the patient. Dilemmas of Non-maleficence Involves the avoidance of harm. These issues often involve a clinician’s responsibility to ‘blow the whistle’ if the clinician sees others compromising the patient’s safety. In these situations, a clinician notifies higher authorities on weaknesses in the care they provide by not following established communication channels. Dilemmas of Autonomy Involves deciding what course of action maximizes the patient’s right of self determination. Autonomy issues are related to beneficence issues, especially when individuals other than the patient must determine what is best for the patient. Dilemmas of Justice Involves issues of fairness and equality, such as dilemmas that involve dividing limited health care resources fairly. Dilemmas of Fidelity Involves issues that involve honouring promises. These may include the extent and limits of a clinician’s role and duties to patient that might conflict with other duties such as duties of the laboratory technician. Dilemmas of Veracity This is an obligation to be truthful to patients and to cultivate their understanding of relevant consideration. This may involve even delivering bad news to patients and relatives. Sources of Ethical Dilemmas Problems arise when one or more ethical principles conflict with each other. Patients and clinicians- For example human rights are involved when a patient refuses to commit herself in signing consent while the clinician believes it is ethically appropriate to get his/ her permission. The value system, beliefs and culture- For example a patient who belongs to Jehovah’s Witnesses refuses blood transfusion at the time when blood will save the life of that individual. Sources of Ethical Dilemmas cntd Dilemma may arise from justice and conflicts between clinician and other health care professionals, health care organizations, administrators or patients and family members. Example one: Quick service provided to patients who can pay extra money and leaving patients with low economical status to wait. Example two: Family members may demand the HIV results of a patient and create a difficult situation. Example three: A woman may demand abortion for her school age girl who has been raped by a school teacher. Sources of Ethical Dilemmas cntd Technology advancement- Knowledge among people is growing and patients may come to the hospital with full information of their expectations including services like DNA, such as when the clinician is asked to conduct tests to confirm if the claimed father is a true father of the child or not. Technological advancement provides challenges when we are required to extend life support services for terminally sick patients and simplifies accessibility to information. Strategies Used to Solve Ethical Dilemmas There are no clear ways of solving the dilemmas. Different strategies and ways need to be applied in solving the dilemma as described below First the medical practitioner defines his/her obligations, to patients and fellow employees which helped her to analyze ethical conflicts. He/She notes that six steps proved useful to define those obligations:- To maximize a patient’s well being.To maximize a patient’s wellbeing. To balance the patient’s need for autonomy and, in the case of a minor, his/her parents’ responsibilities for his or her wellbeing. To support each family member and enhance the family support system. To carry out the hospital’s policies. To protect the other patients’ good. To protect his or her own standards of care. After examining one’s obligations, it is usually recommended that four additional steps should be taken: Collect as much information as possible about the patient and other significant persons in the situation. Describe probable consequences of each of the courses of action being considered, for the patient and the significant others in the situations. Consider who should make the final decision in the matter. Consult other health practitioners, especially those who are prepared by practice, ethical committee and education to contribute meaningfully to solving problems of an ethical nature. Even after taking the steps described above, solutions may not necessarily be forthcoming when ethical conflicts are present. Commitment to ethical standards of practice is an essential part of medical care, as is the commitment to respecting the rights and dignity of the person receiving care. Key Points An ethical dilemma is a situation having two or more undesirable alternatives. An ethical dilemma must have three characteristics: The problem cannot