Question

Using the MORAL model, decide the best course of action for Jimmy from an ethical perspective rather than a legal perspective. Did you come to the same conclusion using both an ethical and a legal approach?

N520- Legal and Ethical Issues in Health Care

Answer 1

Ans) The MORAL model may not be used to resolve an ethical dilemma but can be used as a tool that provides the best option in resolving a dilemma.

- In the approach, “M” stands for massage the dilemma. It involves collection of data to analyze the situation.

- In this case, Jimmy Chang is twenty years old, he was diagnosed with leukemia five years ago, and has enjoyed fourteen months remission phase before his admission. “O” means outline the options. In this case, there are two options; it’s either the informed consent is signed or not. “R” implies review criteria and resolve. After analysis of the data, it is noted that Jimmy is no longer a minor and he is in a good state to make decision hence he should decide on whether to sign the informed consent or not.

- “A” stands for affirm position and act. Once Jimmy has made his decision, the nurses should act in ensuring that they abide by the principle of doing good. In the last step, “L” means look back.

- It emphasizes on evaluating the ethical dilemma and the resolution. Similarly, using the legal approach, the same conclusion is achieved. Jimmy has the legal rights to decide what to do with his body. Therefore, the informed consent should be presented to Jimmy.

- In conclusion, the three case studies present issues related to informed consent. Informed consent is usually used to protect the patient from medical malpractice and also educating them about their health conditions and the proposed treatment.