Based on the “Healing and Autonomy” case study, fill out all the relevant boxes below. Provide the information by means of bullet points or a well-structured paragraph in the box. Gather as much data as possible.

Week 3 case study biomed ethics/ christian narrative | ethics

Part 1: Chart

Principle Definition Relevant Information from the Case Study

Autonomy The principle of respect for an individual’s right to self-determination.

The patient has the right to make their own medical decisions without coercion or undue influence.

-The patient desires to discontinue the treatment despite the healthcare team’s advice to continue. -The patient expresses concern about the negative impact of treatment on their ability to enjoy their remaining time with their family. -The patient has the capacity to make their own decisions. -The patient’s decision is based on their personal values and beliefs.

Beneficence The principle of doing good for the patient.

Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to promote the well-being of their patients and to prevent harm.

-The healthcare team recommends continuing treatment to prolong the patient’s life. -The healthcare team believes that the treatment will improve the patient’s quality of life. -The healthcare team believes that the treatment aligns with the patient’s best interests.

Nonmaleficence The principle of not causing harm to the patient.

Healthcare professionals have a responsibility to avoid causing harm to their patients.

-The treatment has side effects that negatively impact the patient’s quality of life. -The healthcare team recognizes that the treatment may not be effective in prolonging the patient’s life.

Justice The principle of fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources.

Healthcare resources should be distributed fairly to all patients based on their medical needs.

-The cost of the treatment is significant and may impact the patient’s ability to provide for their family. -The healthcare team is concerned about the allocation of healthcare resources and whether the treatment is justified given the patient’s limited life expectancy.

Part 2: Evaluation

1. According to the Christian worldview, each of the principles would be specified and weighted as follows in this case:

Autonomy: The Christian worldview upholds the principle of autonomy and the right of individuals to make their own decisions. In this case, the patient’s decision to discontinue treatment must be respected as long as the patient has the capacity to make informed decisions.

Beneficence: The Christian worldview emphasizes the importance of doing good and promoting the well-being of others. The healthcare team’s recommendation to continue treatment to prolong the patient’s life aligns with this principle.

Nonmaleficence: The Christian worldview also stresses the importance of not causing harm to others. The healthcare team must ensure that the treatment does not cause undue harm or suffering to the patient.

Justice: The Christian worldview upholds the principle of fairness in the distribution of resources. In this case, the cost of treatment must be weighed against the potential benefits and the patient’s limited life expectancy.

2. According to the Christian worldview, a Christian might balance each of the four principles in this case as follows:

Autonomy: A Christian might recognize the importance of respecting the patient’s autonomy and their desire to discontinue treatment. However, they might also encourage the patient to consider the impact of their decision on their loved ones and to make an informed decision.

Beneficence: A Christian might support the healthcare team’s recommendation to continue treatment to prolong the patient’s life, provided that the treatment does not cause undue harm or suffering.

Nonmaleficence: A Christian might advocate for the patient’s well-being and seek to ensure that the treatment does not cause undue harm or suffering.

Justice: A Christian might consider the cost of treatment and the allocation of healthcare resources in light of the patient’s limited life expectancy, seeking to ensure that resources are distributed fairly to all patients based on their medical needs.