Medical Ethics

Question 1

Define ethics.

Answer 1

• “The body of moral principles or values governing or distinctive of a particular culture or group.”
• Principles,values, honesty, standards

Question 2

Define morality.

Answer 2

-“Our attitudes, behaviours and relations to one another.”

Question 3

Define consequences.

Answer 3

-“Moral worth of an action is determined by its outcomes.”

Question 4

What are the two elements of ethics and clinical decisions? (2)

Answer 4

• 1. Duties of a doctor

- 2. four principles

Question 5

What are the duties of a doctor? (1)

Answer 5

• Listed by the GMC e.g.
• take care of pts first concern
• respect
• recognise limits and competencies
• avoid abusing position as a doctor

Question 6

What are the “ four principles”?

Answer 6

• Respect for autonomy (promote the right to self determination)
• Non-malfeasance (avoid harm)
• Beneficence (do good)
• Justice (equity, individual/population)

Question 7

What must a doctor be? (6)

Answer 7

• Non-judegemental
• Not imposing personal views
• Respect patient’s views
• Confidentiality
• Don’t exceed competency
• Fitness to practice

Question 8

Define “A duty of candour”

Answer 8

• Open and honest when something goes wrong (even if the patient is not aware) that may cause harm
• Apologise and explain, offer help/solution