It is common for clinicians to face ethical dilemmas in practice. While there are some major ethical obstacles you may encounter from time-to-time, it is more likely you will encounter more minor ethical issues more frequently. The challenge with “minor” ethical issues is they can quickly become a big problem if not handled appropriately. Select ethical dilemma and then describe how you would use an ethical decision-making model, such as the ones discussed in your readings or another professionally adopted ethical decision-making model, in the situation you choose.
Selected ethical dilemma:
• A client signs up for services using the self-service scheduling feature of your electronic health record software. When the client comes in, they say they want to “get right to work,” but they did not complete the informed consent form. Do you “jump right in?"
Ethical Dilemma: Informed Consent in Self-Service Scheduling
Introduction
In the field of healthcare, ensuring informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle that respects a patient's autonomy and right to make decisions about their care. When faced with a situation where a client has not completed the informed consent form despite signing up for services using self-service scheduling, it raises an ethical dilemma. This essay will explore how an ethical decision-making model can be applied to address this scenario effectively.
Ethical Decision-Making Model: The Four-Component Model
The Four-Component Model, proposed by Beauchamp and Childress, provides a structured approach to ethical decision-making. The model consists of four key components: ethical sensitivity, ethical judgment, ethical motivation, and ethical action. Let's apply this model to the selected ethical dilemma:
Ethical Sensitivity
The first step is to recognize that an ethical issue is present. In this scenario, the healthcare provider must be sensitive to the fact that the client has not completed the informed consent form, which is essential for outlining the treatment process, risks, benefits, and alternatives. By acknowledging the potential ethical implications of proceeding without informed consent, the provider demonstrates ethical sensitivity.
Ethical Judgment
In this phase, the healthcare provider must analyze the situation and consider relevant ethical principles and guidelines. The principle of respect for autonomy is particularly relevant in this case. Autonomy requires that individuals have the right to make informed decisions about their care. By skipping the informed consent process, the provider may be undermining the client's autonomy.
Ethical Motivation
Ethical motivation involves determining the best course of action based on ethical analysis. In this situation, the healthcare provider should prioritize obtaining informed consent before proceeding with any services or treatments. This may involve explaining the importance of informed consent to the client and addressing any concerns or questions they may have.
Ethical Action
The final component entails implementing the chosen course of action in a manner consistent with ethical principles. The healthcare provider should take steps to ensure that the client understands the purpose of informed consent and provide them with the necessary information to make an informed decision about their care. This may involve offering to review the informed consent form with the client and addressing any issues or uncertainties they may have.
Conclusion
In conclusion,
when faced with an ethical dilemma regarding informed consent in self-service scheduling, using an ethical decision-making model like the Four-Component Model can guide healthcare providers in navigating complex situations ethically. By being sensitive to ethical issues, exercising sound judgment, acting in accordance with ethical principles, and prioritizing informed consent, healthcare professionals can uphold patient autonomy and ensure ethical practice in their interactions with clients.