Medical Ethics Flashcards
What is medical ethics?
A system of moral principles that apply values to the practice of clinical medicine and in scientific research
What are the ethical obligations of a physician?
To benefit the patient, to avoid or minimize harm, and to respect the values and preferences of the patient
What are the four fundamental principles of ethics?
- Respect for autonomy
- Beneficence
- Non-maleficence
- Justice
Define autonomy in medical ethics
The ability of an individual to make a rational un-influenced decision
What does beneficence refer to?
Actions that promote the wellbeing of others
What is non-maleficence?
The obligation of a physician not to harm the patient
What is the principle of justice in medical ethics?
Fair, equitable, and appropriate treatment of persons
What is the principle of double effect?
The combined effect of beneficence and non-maleficence
What is a living will?
A written, legal document that outlines medical treatments one would and would not want to keep alive
True or False: Euthanasia is legal in all countries.
False
What are the requirements for informed consent?
- Must be competent to understand and decide
- Receives a full disclosure
- Comprehends the disclosure
- Acts voluntarily
- Consents to the proposed action
What is confidentiality in medical ethics?
The obligation not to disclose confidential information given by a patient without authorization
What is the Hippocratic Oath?
An oath historically taken by physicians that requires them to uphold specific ethical standards
What is the Nuremberg Code?
A set of research ethics principles for human experimentation created as a result of the Nuremberg trials
What does the principle of distributive justice refer to?
The fair, equitable, and appropriate distribution of health-care resources
Fill in the blank: The principle of _______ refers to the obligation of a physician to act for the benefit of the patient.
[beneficence]
What are some exceptions to patient confidentiality?
- Legally required reporting of gunshot wounds
- Reporting of sexually transmitted diseases
- Situations that may cause harm to another
What is medical futility?
The concept pertaining to situations where there is no chance a patient will survive despite family insistence on advanced care
What ethical conflicts can arise from sexual relationships between doctors and patients?
Consent may conflict with the fiduciary responsibility of the physician
What does the AMA state about physicians treating family members?
Physicians generally should not treat themselves or members of their immediate family
What can influence a physician’s prescribing practices?
Drug company inducements, including gifts and food
What does the ethical principle of care require?
That all patients are treated in an equal way without prejudice
What is informed refusal?
The idea that a person must understand the potential benefits and risks of refusing treatment
True or False: Autonomy can never be overridden.
False
What is the significance of the Declaration of Helsinki?
It outlines ethical principles for medical research involving human subjects
What is the ethical duty of practitioners regarding human rights?
To protect the rights and dignity of the patient
What is the primary ethical consideration for experimental physicians serving as subjects?
The degree of risk should not exceed the humanitarian importance of the problem being solved.
This principle emphasizes the need for ethical standards in medical experimentation.
What must be provided to protect experimental subjects?
Adequate facilities and proper preparations to protect against injury, disability, or death.
This is crucial for ensuring the safety of participants in medical research.
Who should conduct medical experiments?
Scientifically qualified persons.
This requirement ensures that experiments are conducted with the highest degree of skill and care.
What right does a human subject have during an experiment?
The right to terminate the experiment if it becomes impossible for them to continue.
This emphasizes the importance of respecting the autonomy of the subject.
What must the scientist in charge be prepared to do during an experiment?
Terminate the experiment if continuation is likely to result in harm.
This ensures the safety and well-being of the subject at all times.
What is the doctor-patient relationship considered in health care?
A central part of health care and a foundation of contemporary medical ethics.
This relationship is essential for effective patient care.
What is essential for establishing good rapport between a patient and physician?
The patient’s confidence in the competence of their physician.
Trust is critical for effective communication and treatment adherence.
Which medical specialties emphasize the physician-patient relationship more than others?
Psychiatry and family medicine.
These specialties require more direct patient interaction compared to others like pathology or radiology.
What can a strong doctor-patient relationship lead to?
Frequent quality information exchange and better health care outcomes.
This relationship enhances diagnosis accuracy and patient knowledge.
What happens when the doctor-patient relationship is poor?
The physician’s ability to assess is compromised and the patient may distrust the diagnosis.
This can lead to decreased compliance with medical advice.
What is ‘informed consent’ in the context of medical practice?
The practice of informing patients and obtaining their consent before treatment.
This reflects a shift from paternalism to patient autonomy in healthcare.
Why is truth-telling important in the doctor-patient relationship?
It is vital for maintaining patient trust.
Disclosure of diagnosis and prognosis is essential for informed decision-making.
What does ‘shared decision making’ entail?
Patients are given the opportunity to choose among treatment options.
This respects patient autonomy and involvement in their own care.
How may a physician’s use of complex terminology affect the patient?
It may create a perception of superiority and complicate communication.
This can hinder understanding and rapport.
What impact can a patient’s personal attributes have on physician communication?
They can influence the quality and quantity of information provided by physicians.
Attributes like age, sex, and socioeconomic status play significant roles.
What is a potential dilemma in the doctor-patient relationship regarding treatment?
Disagreement between the physician and patient on treatment efficiency.
This may require careful communication strategies to manage.
What can transitional care affect in patient treatment?
It may decrease the quality of care during transitions between practitioners.
Continuity of care is important for maintaining a strong doctor-patient relationship.
What is ‘conversational dominance’ in the doctor-patient dynamic?
When physicians dominate conversations due to perceived superiority.
This can affect how information is shared and understood.
How can the presence of family members affect doctor-patient communication?
They may provide support but can compromise confidentiality.
This can inhibit open discussion on sensitive topics.
What characterizes good bedside manner?
Reassuring and comforting the patient while being honest about diagnoses.
Effective communication is key to positive patient experiences.
What can poor bedside manner lead to for patients?
Feelings of dissatisfaction, worry, or fear.
This can negatively impact patient trust and compliance.
How can patient behavior impact the doctor-patient relationship?
Rude or aggressive behavior can distract healthcare professionals.
This may result in less effective care or mistakes during procedures.
