Introduction to Medical Ethics and Law

Question 1

Define Ethics.

Answer 1

The body of moral principles or values governing (or distinctive of) a particular culture or group.

Question 2

What are the two traditions in which ethical principals arise?

Answer 2

1. Deontology.

2. Utilitarianism.

Question 3

Define Consequentialism.

Answer 3

The moral worth of an action is determined by its outcome.

Question 4

Define Deontology.

Answer 4

Duties: Right and wrong actions by individuals or groups. “Absolute Values”.

Question 5

Define Utilitarianism.

Answer 5

Considering the benefits and harms to individual and society: Looking at the consequences and not just the individual.

This is a type of consequentialism.

Question 6

Who is Jeremy Bentham?

Answer 6

Founder of utilitarianism:

“The greatest good for the greatest number”

–> Maximising happiness and minimising unhappiness.

Question 7

What are the four core ethical prinicples for doctors?

Answer 7

1. Respect for Autonomy
2. Non-malfeasance
3. Beneficence
4. Justice

Question 8

What is respect for autonomy?

Answer 8

Promoting the right to self determination.
This is done through:
- Confidentiality
- Informed consent
- Promoting capacity

Question 9

What is Non-Malfeasance?

Answer 9

The avoidance of harm.

Question 10

What is Beneficence?

Answer 10

To do good.

Question 11

What is Justice?

Answer 11

Fairness and Equity:

• Non discrimination.
• Equal treatment for equal need.

Individual justice vs Population justice:

• Rationing.
• Limits to autonomy.

Question 12

When can confidentiality be breached?

Answer 12

• With patients explicit consent.
• If a disclosure is required by law.
• If a disclosure is in the public interest.

N.B. You should keep a record of your decisions to disclose or not to disclose information.