How can family members solve ethical dilemmas?
A Argue about the ethical dilemma
B Use the ethical decision-making process
C Ask the family member’s pastor to solve the dilemma
D Only listen to the spouse of the person with dementia
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is B: Use the ethical decision-making process.
Explanation:
Ethical dilemmas, particularly in the context of healthcare and family decision-making, often arise when there are conflicting values, interests, and beliefs. These dilemmas may involve complex situations such as deciding on the course of treatment for a loved one, making end-of-life decisions, or navigating the care of someone with a progressive condition, such as dementia.
Family members who face ethical dilemmas can resolve these situations most effectively by using an ethical decision-making process. This process provides a structured framework to help clarify the issue, assess potential outcomes, and ensure that decisions are made thoughtfully and ethically.
The ethical decision-making process typically includes several key steps:
- Identify the ethical dilemma: Family members should first recognize that an ethical dilemma exists. This means understanding the conflict between values, such as the right to autonomy versus the need for care or protection.
- Gather information: It is essential to collect all relevant facts, such as the patient’s condition, medical history, and the wishes of the person involved, if known. This may involve consulting with healthcare providers, reviewing legal documents (e.g., advance directives), or considering the patient’s personal preferences.
- Consider the options: After gathering information, family members can evaluate different options for action. Each potential course of action should be weighed in terms of its ethical implications, risks, and benefits.
- Make a decision: Based on the information and analysis, the family can make a decision that aligns with ethical principles, such as autonomy, beneficence (doing good), non-maleficence (avoiding harm), and justice (fairness).
- Implement the decision: Once a decision is made, the family should ensure that it is communicated clearly and that the necessary actions are taken in a respectful and compassionate manner.
- Evaluate the decision: After the decision is implemented, it’s crucial to reflect on the outcome and reassess if the decision remains appropriate, especially as circumstances change.
Using this process helps ensure that the family makes thoughtful, well-informed decisions that prioritize the well-being and wishes of the person involved, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary conflict or harm.
In contrast, simply arguing (A) or relying on one family member’s opinion (D) does not lead to the comprehensive, ethical resolution that is necessary in complex situations. While consulting a pastor (C) may be useful for spiritual guidance, the ethical decision-making process remains the most structured and appropriate method for resolving dilemmas.