Bio ethics lesson 2

Human Person

A human person can think, decide, and understand right from wrong. Each person has dignity, feelings, rights, beliefs, and needs.

Personhood

Every individual has value and deserves respect. Patients are unique persons with emotions, beliefs, family, and personal stories.

Moral Personhood

Humans are moral beings because they can choose between good and bad actions. Because we can think and choose, we are responsible for what we do.

Human Acts

Actions done with knowledge, freedom, and consent. They are done knowingly, freely, and willingly, and can be judged as right or wrong.

Acts of Man

Natural actions without full conscious choice. They happen automatically, without complete thinking, freedom, or decision-making.

Human Acts (comparison)

Done with thinking, freely, willingly; can be right or wrong. Example: reporting an error.

Acts of Man (comparison)

Happen naturally, automatic or instinctive, no full decision-making, usually not judged morally. Example: heartbeat or sneezing.

Knowledge

The person understands what is being done. Example: knowing the correct medication before giving it.

Freedom

The person can choose without force. Example: choosing to assist a patient because it is right.

Consent

The person willingly agrees to the action. Example: patient signs consent before a procedure.

Conscience

The inner voice that helps us recognize what is right or wrong. It guides nurses to act honestly, safely, and professionally.

Dignity

Every patient has dignity.

Moral Choices

Nurses make moral choices.

Human Acts Elements

Human acts need knowledge, freedom, and consent.

Conscience (review)

Conscience guides safe and honest care.