Ethical Issues in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Flashcards
(19 cards)
What are the four key principles in the ethical framework of OBGYN care?
Autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice.
Why are women considered vulnerable in OBGYN ethics?
Due to social, cultural, and economic circumstances.
What responsibilities do physicians have towards women in OBGYN care?
To provide evidence-based care and consider women’s psychological well-being.
Name three areas where ethical issues arise in OBGYN.
Medical education, family planning, abortion, HIV, CS for non-medical reasons.
What is the ethical guideline for medical education in OBGYN?
Teachers must supervise trainees appropriately and avoid exploitative relationships.
What must researchers do when advertising their credentials or results?
Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals before advertising in mass media.
Should abortion be promoted as a method of family planning?
No, abortion should never be promoted as a method of family planning.
What should a doctor do if unwilling to provide a family planning method?
Refer the patient to another provider capable of offering the service.
How should newborns be treated during resuscitation?
With the same respect and dignity as any human being.
What is the ethical approach when uncertainty exists about neonatal intensive care?
Start “provisional” intensive care and reassess with clinical input and parental involvement.
What is the ethical stance on HIV testing in pregnancy?
It should be routinely offered, but patients have the right to opt out.
Should HIV-positive women be denied care based on their status?
No, they should receive the same standard of care with strict confidentiality.
What is the ethical stance on CS (Caesarean Section) for non-medical reasons?
It is not ethically justified; doctors must provide full counselling on risks.
What measures should be taken for HIV-positive couples seeking reproduction?
Offer ART and emphasise responsible behaviour to prevent transmission.
Is a romantic or sexual relationship ever acceptable between a doctor and a patient?
No, it is never acceptable while the doctor-patient relationship is active.
Who controls the confidentiality of a patient’s health information?
The patient has ultimate control over the confidentiality of their data.
Are all members of a healthcare team entitled to full access to a patient’s records?
No; access should be limited to necessary personnel only.
When can patient information be shared with third parties like insurance companies?
Only with the patient’s informed and express consent.
What is the ethical principle violated by coercion in reproductive decisions?
It violates both ethical principles and human rights.
