Ethical dilemmas are common in medicine from "summary" of When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
In the practice of medicine, ethical dilemmas often arise, presenting difficult decisions for healthcare professionals to navigate. These dilemmas can stem from conflicting values, beliefs, priorities, and obligations, making it challenging to determine the most appropriate course of action. One such ethical dilemma that frequently surfaces in medicine is the balance between the patient's autonomy and the physician's duty to act in the patient's best interest. This tension can arise when a patient refuses a recommended treatment, and the physician must decide whether to respect the patient's wishes or intervene to prevent harm. Additionally, ethical dilemmas in medicine can stem from issues of justice and resource allocation, particularly in situations where limited resources must be distributed among competing needs. Healthcare professionals may face moral dilemmas when deciding who should receive scarce resources, such as organs for transplantation or life-saving treatments. Furthermore, the rapidly advancing field of medicine introduces new ethical dilemmas as technology and medical knowledge evolve. Decisions regarding experimental treatments, genetic testing, end-of-life care, and the use of artificial intelligence in medical decision-making can raise complex ethical considerations that require careful reflection and consideration.- Healthcare professionals are called upon to uphold ethical principles and values, such as beneficence, non-maleficence, respect for autonomy, and justice. By engaging in ethical reflection, dialogue, and decision-making, healthcare professionals can navigate these difficult situations with integrity and compassion, ultimately striving to provide the best possible care for their patients.
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