Please answer the questions below. The second question length is 2 to 3 pages long.

Question 1:

This semester you have been exposed to many ethical approaches and theories, including, utilitarianism, deontologism, the rights approach, the virtue approach and natural law. Discuss the development of your ethical reasoning during the semester. Do you tend to support one ethical approach over another?

Question 2:

Give examples of your position on three issues concerning medical ethics; and support your opinion with the appropriate reasoning or theory.

Answer preview

 

1. Development of Ethical Reasoning during the Semester

Healthcare ethics discussed in this semester have significantly impacted my progression in ethical reasoning. In ethical dilemmas, I have identified fundamental steps to use to achieve morally sound decisions. First, it is crucial to identify the ethical situation to avoid prejudgments as possible. After identifying the ethical position, it is essential to determine the facts to anchor ethical decisions. This can include medical facts such as prognosis, understanding the patient’s wishes, and therapeutic goals. Ethical reasoning requires content-based information, such as what influences a patient`s preferences or perceptions. The physician can enquire about the social-economic circumstances or any prior health care experience, such as racial discrimination in care delivery. The third critical issue in ethical reasoning learned throughout the semester is to determine whether the present problem is an ethical concern. For instance, in conflicting issues such as the question of withdrawing treatment to meet an organization`s budget, the healthcare provider should determine the ethical concern to inform the right theory to employ. That is, considering whether the ethical situation has moral questions related to principles such as autonomy, professional obligations, and patient’s rights, among others. (1022 words)