Ethical Principles in Healthcare

A systematic process of thinking about and analyzing morality. It used to be primarily a part of philosophy and theology, but now other disciplines are involved.

Primary career activity revolves around ethics. They analyze ethical issues in specific situations, clarify values and ethical duties, and help resolve ethical dilemmas.

A group of professionals from various disciplines (nurses, chaplains, etc.) who analyze complex ethical dilemmas involving patients or their families. They provide a holistic perspective.

This refers to treating people with respect and recognizing their inherent worth as human beings. It means understanding and being sensitive to their needs and values.

The ethical goal of all professional-patient relationships. It involves understanding and responding to the patient's needs with compassion and sensitivity.

Providing information in a way that is sensitive to the patient's emotional state and the potential impact of the news.

It's the act of carefully reflecting on moral issues and then acting in alignment with those reflections.

The state of being healthy both physically and mentally. It implies freedom from disease or illness.

The patient's right to make their own decisions about their healthcare, even if those decisions differ from what healthcare providers might recommend.

The duty to tell the truth to patients, even if the truth is difficult to hear.

The ethical principle that aims to fairly distribute benefits and burdens among individuals or groups.

Making decisions for someone else, without their consent, because you believe it is in their best interest.

Respecting and upholding the patient's wishes, even if those wishes differ from your own.

A written document that outlines a patient's wishes for future medical care, in case they are unable to make decisions for themselves.

The ability of a person to understand and make informed decisions about their own health.

The obligation to act in a way that is consistent with your professional role and the needs of your patients.

A model of care that puts the patient's needs, preferences, and values at the center of all decisions, ensuring their well-being is prioritized.

The act of not causing harm to oneself or another. A core principle in healthcare ethics guiding professionals to avoid actions that could potentially injure their patients.

The act of doing good or bringing benefit to others. It is a core principle in healthcare ethics that encourages professionals to take actions that promote their patients' well-being.

The challenges and emotional toll associated with caring for others. This can include physical, emotional, and mental strain, as well as feelings of exhaustion and frustration.

The positive outcomes and personal fulfillment that come from being a caregiver. This can include a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and connection to your community.

The caregiver-patient relationship is complex, with the caregiver often holding more power due to specialized knowledge and expertise. It's critical to uphold ethical principles and recognize patients as individuals with dignity and autonomy.

Personal values and beliefs are essential for maintaining a sense of personal integrity, especially when facing ethical challenges in healthcare. It's important to be aware of your own values and how they influence your actions.

An essential component of patient-centered care. This involves using various communication strategies to ensure clear and effective interactions with patients.

A healthcare professional's commitment to carefully consider the moral implications of their actions and then behave in accordance with those reflections.

A group of healthcare professionals from different disciplines who come together to analyze complex ethical dilemmas involving patients, their families, or staff.

The ability to act in accordance with one's own values and beliefs, without undue external influence.

The principle of fairness and impartiality in treatment and resource allocation.