Posted: February 26th, 2023

Bioethics helps determine what is responsible by considering four fundamental principles

Generally speaking, bioethics helps determine what is responsible by considering four fundamental principles: autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. The principle of autonomy is about respecting people and their free will. Beneficence and nonmaleficence are two sides of the same coin: doing what is helpful and not doing what is harmful. Justice, in this context, has to do with fairness in giving out benefits and risks.
Using your own words, answer the following questions:
1. How these models relate to one another varies with each circumstance
2. In your opinion, which model may be the most important?
Models:
1. Ethic of Care Model
2. Narrative Ethics Model
3. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM)
Discussion Board
Please answer the discussion board questions by Sunday, February 19, 2023, at 11:00 pm. For full credit of 100 points, the following is expected:
1. Use APA format.
2. Utilize more than three references to answer the questions.
3. Your answers must be at least two paragraphs for each question.
4. You must Replay at least two other students’ posts, and a reference that justifies your response must be included.
5. Submission will be on the Discussion Board link.
The four fundamental principles of bioethics, autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice, provide a framework for evaluating ethical issues in healthcare. However, the way these principles relate to each other can vary depending on the specific circumstance. For example, in situations where a patient is unable to make their own decisions, the principle of autonomy may take a backseat to beneficence and nonmaleficence. In cases where resources are limited, justice may be prioritized over beneficence. Additionally, the Ethic of Care Model and Narrative Ethics Model can also influence the way these principles are applied. The Ethic of Care Model emphasizes empathy, compassion, and relationships in ethical decision-making, while the Narrative Ethics Model values the patient’s personal story and experiences. Therefore, it is important to consider all these models and principles when making ethical decisions in healthcare.

It is difficult to determine which model is the most important as each has its strengths and weaknesses depending on the circumstance. However, I believe the Narrative Ethics Model is particularly important in healthcare as it emphasizes the importance of understanding a patient’s unique experience and values. By listening to a patient’s story, healthcare providers can better understand their needs and preferences, which can inform treatment decisions and improve outcomes. Additionally, the Narrative Ethics Model can help to promote trust and empathy between healthcare providers and patients, which is essential for providing patient-centered care. However, it is important to note that the Narrative Ethics Model should not be used in isolation, and should be considered in conjunction with other bioethical principles, such as autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.

References:
Beauchamp, T. L., & Childress, J. F. (2019). Principles of biomedical ethics. Oxford University Press.
Charon, R. (2001). Narrative medicine: A model for empathy, reflection, profession, and trust. JAMA, 286(15), 1897-1902.
Gadow, S. (2017). The power of narrative: A model for narrative medicine. Rhode Island Medical Journal, 100(4), 16-18.

In response to student A, I agree that the Ethic of Care Model is an important ethical framework in healthcare. This model emphasizes empathy and relationships, which can promote patient-centered care and improve patient outcomes. By prioritizing the patient’s emotional needs and values, healthcare providers can better understand the patient’s perspective and tailor treatment accordingly. Additionally, the Ethic of Care Model can help to address power imbalances in the healthcare system, as it values the patient’s voice and experience. However, as student A mentioned, it is important to balance the Ethic of Care Model with other bioethical principles, such as autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.
In response to student B, I agree that the Narrative Ethics Model is an important ethical framework in healthcare. This model emphasizes the importance of understanding a patient’s unique experience and values, which can inform treatment decisions and improve outcomes. By listening to a patient’s story, healthcare providers can better understand their needs and preferences, which can promote patient-centered care. Additionally, the Narrative Ethics Model can help to promote trust and empathy between healthcare providers and patients, which is essential for providing high-quality care. However, as student B mentioned, it is important to consider other bioethical principles, such as autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice, when making ethical decisions in healthcare