Discussion Present: An Example Of An Ethical Dilemma And How

Discussionpresent An Example Of An Ethical Dilemma And How Can You Re

Discussion: Present an example of an ethical dilemma and how can you resolve it (briefly). Describe at least one ethical principle and your problem’s solution. Instructions: Post your discussion to the Moodle Discussion Forum. Word limit 500 words. Reply to at least two other groups' posts with a reflection of their response (Word Limit for response: 250 words). Please make sure to provide citations and references (in APA format) for your work. All students in the group will receive the same grade. Be sure your group is submitting and participating.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Ethical dilemmas are prevalent across various professions and everyday life, posing challenging situations where individuals must choose between conflicting moral principles. An ethical dilemma occurs when two or more moral obligations appear to be in conflict, and adhering to one may violate the other. Recognizing and resolving such dilemmas requires critical analysis and application of ethical principles. This paper presents an example of an ethical dilemma, discusses how to resolve it, and highlights the importance of ethical principles in guiding moral decision-making.

Example of an Ethical Dilemma

Imagine a healthcare professional working in a busy hospital setting. A patient with a terminal illness is experiencing severe pain and requests assistance in hastening their death. The healthcare provider is bound by the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice. The dilemma arises because assisting the patient in ending their life may align with respecting their autonomy and alleviating suffering but conflicts with the healthcare provider's obligation to do no harm (non-maleficence) and uphold the sanctity of life.

In many jurisdictions, euthanasia or assisted suicide is illegal, complicating the healthcare provider's decision. The dilemma is whether to respect the patient's wishes, which may involve ethically justified actions in some contexts, or to follow legal and institutional policies that prohibit such actions. The healthcare professional faces a moral conflict between honoring patient autonomy and adhering to legal constraints and personal or organizational ethical standards.

Resolving the Ethical Dilemma

Resolving this dilemma involves careful consideration of ethical principles, legal statutes, and institutional policies. One approach is to prioritize open communication and explore alternative ways to alleviate the patient's suffering within legal boundaries. For instance, the healthcare provider can focus on enhancing pain management and providing psychological support to address emotional distress.

When considering ethical principles, the principle of beneficence guides the provider to act in the patient's best interests by minimizing suffering. Respect for autonomy underscores the importance of honoring the patient's informed choices. However, the principle of non-maleficence — "do no harm" — may conflict with a patient’s desire for hastened death, especially when legally prohibited.

A potential resolution is to prioritize beneficence and autonomy within the legal framework. This can include offering palliative care options, advance directives, and emotional support, ultimately respecting the patient's wishes to the extent permitted by law. Engaging in ethical consultations and adhering to institutional policies ensures that actions align with legal and ethical standards. In cases where legal or institutional constraints cannot be overridden, the healthcare provider should reconcile their moral discomfort with professional responsibilities, seeking support from ethics committees or supervisors.

The Role of Ethical Principles

Ethical principles serve as foundational guides in resolving dilemmas. Beneficence emphasizes acting in the patient's best interest, while non-maleficence stresses avoiding harm. Respect for autonomy respects the patient's right to make decisions about their own life and body. Justice entails fairness in distributing healthcare resources and respecting legal standards. Balancing these principles is complex but essential in making ethically sound decisions.

In this context, applying principlism — a framework that balances these core principles — helps healthcare providers navigate the moral landscape. It encourages dialogue, reflection, and ethical reasoning to arrive at decisions that are morally justifiable and legally compliant.

Conclusion

Ethical dilemmas challenge healthcare professionals to reconcile competing moral principles, legal considerations, and personal values. The example discussed illustrates the complexity of end-of-life decisions and the importance of applying ethical principles such as beneficence, non-maleficence, and autonomy. Through careful analysis, respectful communication, and adherence to legal and institutional guidelines, clinicians can navigate these dilemmas ethically. Ultimately, fostering an environment of ethical reflection and support enhances moral decision-making and promotes patient-centered care.

References

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