Ethics DEFINITIONS Values Morals Ethics Ethical dilemma THE

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Ethics • DEFINITIONS Values Morals Ethics Ethical dilemma • THE CONCEPT OF ETHICS –

Ethics • DEFINITIONS Values Morals Ethics Ethical dilemma • THE CONCEPT OF ETHICS – ‘ethics’ is derived from the Greek term ethos, which means customs, habitual usage, conduct, and character

Common ethical (moral) theories • Teleology - actions are ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ according to

Common ethical (moral) theories • Teleology - actions are ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ according to the balance of their good or bad consequences – Utilitarianism is a teleological theory that judges acts based on their utility or usefulness • Deontology - actions are performed out of duty or moral obligation; every person is an end and not solely a means to another person’s end. • Virtue theory - places value on the moral character of the actor rather than acts or outcomes of acts

Bioethical principles Four Major Bioethical Principles in Healthcare • The Principle of Autonomy •

Bioethical principles Four Major Bioethical Principles in Healthcare • The Principle of Autonomy • The Principle of Non-Maleficence • The Principle of Beneficence • The Principle of Justice

Ethical decision-making within healthcare • Ethical decision-making usually involves at least one of four

Ethical decision-making within healthcare • Ethical decision-making usually involves at least one of four basic principles: autonomy, non-maleficence; beneficence; and justice. • Principles for ethical decision-making: - respect the autonomy of the individual - avoid harm - where possible achieve benefit - consider, fairly, the interests of all those affected

Framework for ethical decision -making Begin by learning to recognise a moral issue Step

Framework for ethical decision -making Begin by learning to recognise a moral issue Step 1: Gather all relevant information Step 2: Identify and clarify the ethical problem(s) Step 3: Analyse the problem by considering the various ethical theories or approaches Step 4: Explore the range of options or possible solutions Step 5: Make a decision Step 6: Implement and then reflect on the decision