Medical Ethics

Question 1

What are ethics

Answer 1

The body of moral principles or values governing or distinctive of a particular culture or group

Question 2

What is morality

Answer 2

Our attitudes, behaviours and relations to one another

Question 3

What is consequentialism

Answer 3

The moral worth of an action is determined by its outcome

Question 4

What are the duties of a doctor

Answer 4

Make patient care first concern
Treat every patient kindly and considerately
Respect rights of patient to be involved in decisions of care
Recognise limits of your clinical competency
Avoid abusing position as doctor
Work with colleagues to benefit patient

Question 5

What are the four ethical principles

Answer 5

1. Autonomy - promote right to self-determination
2. Non-Maleficence - avoid harm
3. Beneficence - do good
4. Justice - fairness and equity, non-discriminatory

Question 6

What are the important ethical factors that need to be considered in a consultation

Answer 6

• Non-judgemental approach
• Not imposing personal views and respecting patients views
• Confidentiality
• Informed consent
• Promote capacity
• Not exceeding your competency
• Fitness to practice

Question 7

What are the aspects of the duty of candor which affect a doctor

Answer 7

Must be open and honest about mistakes
Apologise and offer remedy / support
Raise concerns if you believe a patient’s best interests potentially have been compromised