Principles of medical ethics and law

Question 1

What are “Ethics”?

Answer 1

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

Question 2

Where do ethical principles come from?

Answer 2

If actions are right or wrong (“absolute values”) (Deontology)
Considering the benefits and harms to individuals and society (Utilitarianism)

Question 3

What are 4 things which comprise ethics?

Answer 3

Principles
Values
Honesty
Standards

Question 4

What is morality?

Answer 4

Our attitudes, behaviours and relations to one another

Question 5

What is consequentialism?

Answer 5

The moral worth of an action is determined by its outcome

Question 6

What is utilitarianism?

Answer 6

The greatest good for the greatest number

Question 7

What are the 2 main factors affecting ethics and clinical decision making?

Answer 7

Duties of a doctor registered with the GMC

4 principles of medical ethics

Question 8

What principles of good medical practice are particularly relevant ethically?

Answer 8

Non-judgemental approach
Not imposing personal views/respecting patient's views
Confidentiality
Not exceeding your competency
Fitness to practice

Question 9

What is the Duty of Candour?

Answer 9

Must be open and honest with patients when something goes wrong with a patient’s treatment or care which causes, or has the potential to cause, harm or distress

Question 10

What necessary actions are associated with the duty of candour?

Answer 10

You must apologise to the patient and offer an appropriate remedy or support to put matters right (if possible) and explain fully the short and long term effects of what has happened

Question 11

What is an ethical dilemma?

Answer 11

A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two courses of action, either of which entails transgressing a moral principle