Introduction to Pharmacy Ethics Flashcards
What is ethics?
Systematic study of moral choices
What is Pharmacy ethics?
- A branch of medical ethics
- Framework for resolving questions about what should be done in pharmacy practice
What is an ethical dilemma?
Morals conflict with each other, often involve choice between equally unsatisfactory alternatives
Increasing in frequency and difficulty due to:
* Professional roles
* Treatments
Ethical Schools
Deontology, Consequence, Virtue, Context
What does deontology entail?
1) Non maleficence
2) beneficence
3) autonomy
4) Justice
What does consequence entail?
- Utilitarianism
- Act
- Rule
What does context entail?
- Casuistic
* Narrative
What is the definition of deontology?
Actions are performed out of duty or moral obligation
Definition of Consequence
Actions are right or wrong according to the balance of their good or bad consequences
Definition of virtue
Places value on the moral character of the actor rather than acts or outcomes of acts
Definition of Context
Appeal to the context of action to determine what should be done i.e. case-based reasoning
What are the principles of deontology?
- consequences are thought to be irrelevant
- ones duties are determined by maxim, principles, rules
- duty of care 1, make the care of patients first concern
Basic biomedical ethical principles: Non maleficence Definiton
- Avoid harm
- Justification for acts and omissions
- Withholding/withdrawing treatment that is not benefiting patient
Basic biomedical ethical principles: Beneficence definition
- promote the well being of others
- acting without consent or overriding a persons wishes, wants or actions in order to benefit the patient or prevent harm
Basic biomedical ethical principles: Autonomy
- Self determination
- an individuals action ought to be the result of his or her own choices
- freedom to act independently
- Competent adults informed decision to refused (even life saving) treatment supersedes offer of treatment
