A doctor is prescribing medication, considering both its efficacy and potential side effects. What principle of medical ethics is the doctor demonstrating?
Understand the Problem
The question describes a scenario where a doctor is weighing the benefits (efficacy) and risks (side effects) of a medication before prescribing it. We need to identify which of the four listed principles of medical ethics best reflects this decision-making process. The options are: Non-maleficence (do no harm), Justice (fairness), Autonomy (patient's right to self-determination), and Beneficence (doing good).
Answer
Beneficence and non-maleficence.
The doctor is demonstrating the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. Beneficence involves acting in the patient's best interest by prescribing medication that will be effective. Non-maleficence involves avoiding harm to the patient by considering and minimizing potential side effects.
Answer for screen readers
The doctor is demonstrating the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. Beneficence involves acting in the patient's best interest by prescribing medication that will be effective. Non-maleficence involves avoiding harm to the patient by considering and minimizing potential side effects.
More Information
These two principles are fundamental in medical ethics, guiding doctors to make decisions that promote well-being while minimizing potential harm to their patients.
Tips
A common mistake is to only consider one of the principles (beneficence or non-maleficence) and not both. Another mistake is to confuse these principles with other ethical principles like autonomy or justice.
Sources
- Principles of Clinical Ethics and Their Application to Practice - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Beneficence - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- [PDF] Ethical Considerations in Prescribing or Withholding Opioids for ... - digitalcommons.kansascity.edu
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