Health Medical Homework Help

In this section, we discussed four ethical principles that can be used to assist healthcare professionals in addressing healthcare-related dilemmas: autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence and justice. Using the following case scenario, utilize 2 of these principles in evaluating how the situation could be handled using each principle. In some cases, we may get the same result, but in some cases the outcome will be completely different. Be sure to include all the pros and cons of each principle and how it may affect all involved in the case. After addressing each principle, comment on what principle you would be in favor of the reasoning behind your decision. Be sure to include details on why or why not you would support these theories in this instance.

Case Scenario:

A 58-year-old female patient was diagnosed with diverticular disease after undergoing a barium enema. This patient had often said she was extremely fearful of hospitals and procedures, but she had reluctantly agreed to undergo the study that confirmed the diagnosis. Six months later, the patient presented to her internist with left quadrant pain and spasm as well as a temperature elevation. The physician wanted to hospitalize her, but she begged to be at home on bed rest and said her husband would take care of her. She claimed she would only get worse at the hospital because of her extreme anxiety about staying there.

Using (2) ethical principles, assess the situation and provide your reasoning.