The Importance of Medical Ethics

Question 1

Explain the terms ‘Ethics’ and ‘Ethical Argument’ in philosophical terms

Answer 1

An assertion underpinned by a clear rationale

One based on ethical doctrines, theories, frameworks

Ethics is a philosophical discipline concerning human behaviour and how to act well which may be applied to any endeavour - medical practice

Question 2

Explain the rationale which underpins the important place given to Ethics in Medical Practice today

Question 3

Understand the contents of the GMC publication ‘Achieving Good Medical Practice’

Question 4

Explain the Moral Duty of Medical Students and Doctors upon encountering ‘Unethical Behaviour’

Question 5

Therapeutic privilege

Answer 5

Therapeutic privilege is the right of a healthcare practitioner to withhold information from a patient when there is a justified belief that disclosure may cause serious mental or physical harm to them. It is an exception to the general rule of informed consent