IAH Chapter 4

Ethics

A system of principles developed by a society to guide decisions about what is right and wrong.

Ethical Dilemma

A situation in which there is no clear answer, often resulting when following one principle seems to contradict another.

Ethics and Law

Ethics provides the general principles upon which laws are based, making laws a means of enforcing ethical principles.

Values

What individuals care about most, guiding their decisions and behavior, influenced by factors like family, religion, and experience.

Professional Codes of Ethics

Principles outlined by professional organizations to set standards of conduct that promote the welfare of patients and ensure high quality of care.

Preserve Life

The basic principle stating that life is precious and all possible means should be taken to preserve it.

Euthanasia

Mercy killing; an action resulting in a patient's death to alleviate suffering.

Organ Transplantation

Presents dilemmas regarding consent for donation and allocation priority.

Do Good

Helping and promoting the welfare of others, making the reasonable needs of the patient primary.

Respect Autonomy

Patients have the right to make decisions about their health care, including whether to receive treatment.

Uphold Justice

Fairness; requires that all patients receive the same level of care and consideration.

Rationing Care

Involves decisions about which diagnostic tests and recommended treatments are covered as health care costs rise.

Be Honest

Trust is built on honesty; professionals must admit mistakes promptly.

Fraud

A form of dishonesty involving cheating or trickery, such as submitting claims for services not performed.

Be Discreet (Confidentiality)

Being careful about what is said, preserving confidences, and respecting privacy.

Keep Promises (Contracts)

Contracts are formalized promises enforceable by law.

Do No Harm

Requires working within your scope of practice and following all safety rules.

Consent

Patient permission required for medical treatment.

Informed Consent

Requires a full explanation of the procedure, alternatives, risks, benefits, and patient acceptance.

Battery

The unauthorized touching of another person.

Assault

Any threatened or implied act of unwanted treatment.

False Imprisonment

Holding patients against their will, unless they are mentally incompetent or pose a danger to themselves.

Advance Directives

Written instructions outlining desires for care if an individual becomes unable to make decisions.

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act promotes national standards to protect patient privacy.

Defamation of Character

Harming the reputation of another through unauthorized information disclosure.

Negligence

Failure to meet the standard of care reasonably expected from a person with certain training and experience.

Malpractice

Improper, illegal, or negligent professional activity or treatment.

Respondeat Superior

A concept meaning 'let the master answer,' where employers can be held liable for the behavior of their employees.

Controlled Substances Act

Federal law regulated by the DEA to prevent misuse of addictive substances.

Good Samaritan Laws

Laws passed by states to protect individuals from liability when volunteering care in emergency situations.

Child Abuse

Reporting is required under the Federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act.

Elder Abuse

A growing problem encompassing neglect, financial exploitation, physical/emotional/sexual abuse, and abandonment.

Domestic Violence

Most states mandate reporting for specific injuries or wounds resulting from domestic violence or abuse.

Patient Rights

The American Hospital Association's Patient Care Partnership lists expectations for patients.

Handling Ethical Dilemmas

The first consideration is the well-being of the patient.

Who Decides?

Sources of help when facing special ethical difficulties include hospital ethics committees and the American Medical Association Council.