Chapter 2

Beneficence

Performance of good acts, promoting good action and preventing evil or harm.

Nonmaleficence

The avoidance of evil; the principle requiring health care professionals to avoid causing harm to patients.

Standard of Care

The degree of skill or care practiced by a reasonable professional practicing in the same field.

Negligence

An unintentional tort resulting from actions not intended to do harm.

Medical Negligence

A breach of the health care provider's duty to follow the applicable standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient.

Res Ipsa Loquitur

A legal concept meaning 'the thing speaks for itself'; it applies in cases where injury could not have occurred without negligence.

Principle of Double Effect

A principle stating that performing an act that has evil effects is permissible if the action is good and intended only for good.

ALARA Principle

As Low As Reasonably Achievable; a radiation safety principle aimed at minimizing patient exposure.

Reasonable Care

The degree of care a reasonable person, similarly situated, would use.

Proportionality

The balance between good and evil effects must be justifiable in decision making.

Informed Consent

Permission granted by a patient, based on understanding the risks and benefits of a procedure.

Ethical Standards

Guidelines that govern the conduct of healthcare professionals to ensure patient well-being.

Patient Autonomy

The right of patients to make independent decisions regarding their medical care.

Justice

The principle of fairness in healthcare delivery, ensuring equitable access to services.

Contractual Agreements

Verbal and written agreements between healthcare providers and patients regarding the terms of care.

Documentation

The process of recording patient information and care actions in the medical record to ensure continuity and legal protection.

Radiation Protection

Practices aimed at safeguarding patients from unnecessary exposure to radiation during imaging procedures.