Principles of Medical Law and Ethics Flashcards
Define Ethics
The body of moral principles or values governing or distinctive of a particular cultureor group
Name two traditions where ethical principles come from
1) Duties: “right” and “wrong”; actions by individuals or groups
(DENONTOLOGY)
2) Considering the benefits and harms to individual and society; looking at the consequences not just to the individual
(UTILITARIANISM)
Name 4 things which comprises ethics
Principles
Values
Honesty
Standards, rules of behaviour that guide the decisions, procedures and conduct of individuals that respect the rights of all stakeholders affected by its operations
Define morality
Our attitudes, behaviours and relations to one another
Define consequentialism
The moral worth of an action is determined by its outcome
Define utilitarianism
The greatest good for the greatest number
What are the 4 principles of ethics
Respect for Autonomy
Non-malfeasance
Beneficence
Justice
What does respect for autonomy mean
Promote the right to self determination
- Confidentiality
- Informed consent
- Promote capacity
What does non-malfeasance mean
The avoidance of harm
What does beneficence mean
To do good
What does justice mean
Fairness/equity - Non discrimination - Equal treatment for equal need Individual vs population - Rationing - Limits to autonomy
Define fitness to practice
You have a specific duty to take appropriate action to protect patients, not just by your own actions but also to protect patients if you or others are unfit to practise.
What does the duty of candour state
I understand and will uphold that all those caring for and treating patients are bound by a Duty of Candour
What does the duty of candour mean
This means that you 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
