Instructions
Blog
Have you ever known someone who has dealt with a potentially ethical issue in health care such as end-of-life decision-making, in vitro fertilization, religion, long-term care decisions, or other issues? Did it cause you to want to conduct further research on how to help him or her or to better understand his or her situation? Maybe you have personally experienced such a condition.
Begin to research articles in the CSU Online Library that might help you better understand the condition of this individual, or research an ethical medical dilemma of your choice. Research articles that may help explain some insight into the issue. Locate at least three articles that are no more than 10 pages in length that might arm you with information to help this individual.
Now, imagine that you are the author of a blog. You do not want to identify your friend, but you know he or she reads your blog, so you begin to write a special entry for your friend without identifying him or her. In the blog, address each of the prompts below.
Summarize the ethical issue.
What is the impact of the ethical issue in health care?
What social factors influence the issue and decision?
Pick one side of the issue’s argument, and defend it.
Include a discussion about the impact of the research on ethical questions surrounding the issue.
What additional resources can you offer/mention in the blog?
Note: Keep in mind that you will want to keep the name of the individual confidential. If you would like to use this person in your blog, please use an alias (fake name) for this individual.
Your blog post must be at least 500 words in length. Remember that the blog should be in a conversational format but still include supporting evidence and references to clarify ideas and your thoughts. Be sure to explain any technical terms, as this would be for the whole community to view, including those unfamiliar with your chosen topic.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In medical practice, ethical issues can arise in various areas, such as end-of-life decision-making, in vitro fertilization, religion, long-term care decisions, or other issues. Ethical dilemmas have a significant impact on health care, and it is important to address them to provide better care to patients. In this blog, we will discuss an ethical issue in health care and explore its impact, social factors that influence the issue, arguments from each side, and the impact of research on ethical questions surrounding the issue.
Summarize the ethical issue:
The chosen ethical issue for this blog is end-of-life decision-making. The issue arises when a patient, due to a terminal illness or critical condition, is unable to communicate their wishes regarding their medical care. End-of-life decision-making involves the patient’s family, healthcare providers, and legal considerations, and it can be a complex and emotional process.
Impact of the ethical issue in health care:
End-of-life decision-making is a crucial ethical issue in healthcare as it involves making decisions that can impact the quality of life and the length of survival for an individual. The decisions can range from withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining treatment to palliative care. These decisions can be emotionally challenging for the family members and healthcare providers involved, and can have legal implications.
Social factors influencing the issue and decision:
Social factors such as cultural and religious beliefs, family dynamics, and financial considerations can have an impact on end-of-life decision-making. Cultural and religious beliefs can conflict with medical recommendations, and family dynamics can also play a role in making decisions. Financial implications can influence the decision as the cost of medical care and end-of-life care can be high.
One side of the issue’s argument and its defense:
One argument regarding end-of-life decision-making is that patients have the right to decide their medical care, even if it means refusing life-sustaining treatment. This argument supports the concept of patient autonomy and self-determination. Patients have the right to make their own choices about their healthcare, and this includes the right to refuse treatment. The patient’s wishes should be respected, even if it means discontinuing life-sustaining treatment.
Impact of research on ethical questions surrounding the issue:
Research can have a significant impact on ethical questions surrounding end-of-life decision-making. Studies can provide insight into patients’ and families’ perspectives and experiences with end-of-life decision-making. Research can also provide evidence-based recommendations for healthcare providers, which can help alleviate some of the emotional and ethical challenges involved in end-of-life decision-making.
Additional resources:
For further reading on end-of-life decision-making, some resources that could be helpful include:
– National Institute of Aging: End of Life: Helping with Comfort and Care
– American Medical Association: Code of Medical Ethics
– Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Advance Care Planning
Conclusion:
End-of-life decision-making is a sensitive and complex issue in healthcare. It involves balancing ethical considerations, legal implications, and emotional challenges. Social factors such as cultural and religious beliefs, family dynamics, and financial considerations can also have an impact on the decision-making process. Supporting the patient’s autonomy and self-determination is a crucial aspect of ethical decision-making. Research can provide valuable insight and recommendations to healthcare providers and families involved in the decision-making process.
