Moral And Ethical Framework Appraisal Final Paper Find An Et ✓ Solved

Moral And Ethical Framework Appraisalfinal Paperfind An Ethical Probl

Moral and Ethical Framework Appraisal Final Paper: Find an ethical problem or issue in a profession in which you are interested or that you expect to enter yourself. Part 1 Present a summary explanation and/or analysis of the ethical problem(s) or issue(s), presenting the various sides of the conflict, and, if possible, the differing opinions that have been given about it. State clearly what the ethical problem is that you will be dealing with. This section should be neutral and objective. Shorter is better than longer in this section. Do not try to solve the problem or present your opinion(s) in this section. Part 2 Discuss three different ethical positions or theories that you would apply. Also reference any relevant sections of your professional code of ethics; e.g., APA, ACA, etc. Do not present your opinion(s) on the problem or attempt to solve it here. Part 3 In this final section, present what you think would be the best solution to the problem, along with your reasons for your solution and why you think your solution is superior to the others that might be given. This is the section in which you should discuss your problem and present your opinion(s). Longer is better than shorter in this section. Say what ethical theory or theories and professional-code sections you are using to arrive at your solution. This should be a 2,100- to 2,800-word (or 6- to 8-page) paper, excluding cover page, abstract, and references, using APA formatting.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Ethical dilemmas are prevalent across various professions and require careful analysis to navigate effectively. This paper explores a specific ethical issue in the healthcare sector—patient confidentiality—and assesses different philosophical frameworks and ethical codes to determine the most appropriate resolution.

Part 1: Summary and Analysis of the Ethical Problem

The ethical problem addressed is the conflict between maintaining patient confidentiality and the obligation to disclose information when patient safety is at risk. For instance, healthcare professionals are tasked with protecting patient privacy per HIPAA regulations, yet there are situations where disclosing information might prevent harm to the patient or others. The debate encompasses various perspectives: some argue that confidentiality is paramount and should be upheld unless explicitly waived; others contend that breaches are justified if they serve a greater good, such as preventing violence or harm.

This dilemma becomes particularly complex in cases of infectious disease reporting, mental health disclosures, or when patients refuse necessary treatment. Advocates for strict confidentiality emphasize respecting patient autonomy and trust in the healthcare system. Conversely, proponents of disclosure prioritize beneficence and non-maleficence, stressing the need to prevent harm even if it entails violating confidentiality.

Recent legal and ethical debates highlight the nuanced nature of this issue, with expert opinions often diverging based on context, cultural values, and professional guidelines. This conflict underscores the importance of having a clear ethical framework to guide decision-making in complex situations.

Part 2: Ethical Positions and Theories

The first ethical perspective is deontological ethics, which emphasizes duties and rules derived from moral principles. Kantian ethics, for example, asserts that respecting autonomy and confidentiality are moral duties that must be upheld regardless of consequences. This view aligns with professional codes like the American Medical Association (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics, which underscores the sanctity of patient confidentiality.

The second perspective is utilitarianism, which evaluates actions based on their outcomes. From this standpoint, breaching confidentiality might be justified if it results in greater overall happiness or reduces suffering—for example, preventing a contagious disease outbreak. The utilitarian approach supports flexibility in disclosures when they serve the best interests of the larger community.

The third perspective involves virtue ethics, focusing on the character and moral virtues of the healthcare provider. Traits such as honesty, compassion, and prudence inform how practitioners approach confidentiality issues, encouraging decisions that reflect moral integrity and professional responsibility.

Relevant professional codes reinforce these theories: the APA Ethics Code emphasizes respect for autonomy and confidentiality, while the ACA Code of Ethics underscores the importance of beneficence and non-maleficence. These frameworks offer different lenses through which to analyze and address the ethical dilemma.

Part 3: Proposed Solution and Rationale

After thoroughly analyzing the issue through multiple ethical lenses, I propose that the optimal solution involves a balanced approach grounded in respect for patient autonomy and beneficence. Specifically, healthcare providers should prioritize confidentiality but recognize exceptions in situations where nondisclosure could result in significant harm to the patient or others. This approach aligns with Kantian principles of duty but allows for contextual judgment consistent with utilitarian considerations.

The decision-making process should include transparent discussions with patients about the limits of confidentiality, ensuring informed consent and mutual understanding. Additionally, healthcare practitioners must adhere to legal standards and professional guidelines, such as those outlined by the AMA, emphasizing that protecting patient rights remains paramount while acknowledging circumstances that justify breaches.

This solution is superior to rigid confidentiality policies that deny exceptions because it respects individual rights and incorporates practical safeguards to prevent harm. It also aligns with the core virtues of honesty and prudence, fostering trust and ethical integrity in clinical practice.

In conclusion, navigating the ethical tension between confidentiality and safety requires a nuanced approach that integrates deontological duties, consequentialist assessments, and virtuous character. By adhering to this balanced framework, healthcare professionals can make ethically sound decisions that uphold the dignity and well-being of their patients and the larger community.

References

• Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2013). Principles of Biomedical Ethics. Oxford University Press.
• American Medical Association. (2016). AMA Code of Medical Ethics. AMA Publishing.
• Kant, I. (1785). Groundwork of the Metaphysics of Morals. (Translated by Mary Gregor, 2002). Cambridge University Press.
• Mill, J. S. (1863). Utilitarianism. Parker, Son, and Bourn.
• American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct. APA.
• Childress, J. F., & Siegler, M. (1990). Ethics and Public Policy. Yale University Press.
• Gillon, R. (2003). Ethics needs principles—Four can encompass the patient, perhaps the whole of healthcare ethics. BMJ, 327(7409), 130-131.
• Faden, R. R., & Beauchamp, T. L. (1986). A History and Theory of Informed Consent. Oxford University Press.
• Resnik, D. B. (2018). The Ethics of Research with Human Subjects. Springer.
• Sharp, P. (2010). Ethical pluralism and health care decisions. Journal of Medical Ethics, 36(4), 233-236.