Topic 3: Applying the Four Principles: Case Study Part 1: Chart (60 points) Ethical Issues Based on the Principles of Beneficence Nonmaleficence, autonomy and Justice and Fairness

Beneficence and Nonmaleficence

Autonomy

• On the principle of beneficence there was a chance to reduce the risk of serious and preventable harm.
• This could be by denying Mike a chance to find a religious center and continue with dialysis, which could have saved James’ kidneys
• The principle of nonmaleficence is also an issue as the doctors are bound to do no harm to Samuel, the other identical teen.

• The health practitioners guaranteed autonomy by allowing Mike to take James to a healing center instead of a dialysis
• There is an issue with the autonomy of Samuel, who is a match for James who now needs a kidney transplant

Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Autonomy

Justice and Fairness

• The quality of life was compromised through the principle of autonomy where Mike was allowed to take James home even though his condition was dire
• When James was taken from the care the first time, the principles of nonmaleficence and beneficence were violated unintentionally.

• Justice was evident through the treatment of Mike and James when they were in and out of the hospital. It was clear that the hospital respected Mike’s faith and when James got sicker, they were willing to take them back in and they did not treat them any differently.
• Fairness is still an issue, as Samuel is a potential donor but it seems unfair to subject him to donation when he is under the consenting age and does not understand truly what is happening.