Bioethical Principles To Human Biomonitoring

Principles of medical ethics were established to act as a guide for the provision of healthcare services. An ethical practice must respect all the principles (Harrison, 2008).

Autonomy principle requires people to make independent decisions regarding what happens to them without any external influence (Runciman, Merry & Walton, 2017). They should, however, be presented with all the information on the outcome of various choices.

Justice principle advocates for equal opportunity for all. There should be discrimination based on gender, race, religious beliefs or other factors during experimental or new treatments.

This principle requires that a patient is not injured or harmed intentionally through acts of omission or commission( Runciman, Merry & Walton, 2017). It promotes the provision of proper care that minimizes or avoids potential risks or harm.

This principle requires healthcare providers strive to do good for their patients through maintenance and development of knowledge and skills (Harrison, 2008). It tasks healthcare providers with the responsibility to take steps to avoid any harm to the patient and be of benefit to the patient.

There are various aspects of the Rodney case study that put me in an ethical dilemma. Giving him water as he is requesting will complicate his condition while also denying will be a violation of the Autonomy principle. I would strongly want to deny him water because it will be of medical benefit. But in such a situation since my client is alert, I will passionately inform him of the dangers of both choices including death as a possible outcome and abide by his final decision.

Reference

Harrison, M. (2008). Applying bioethical principles to human biomonitoring. Environmental Health, 7(1), S8.

Runciman, B., Merry, A., & Walton, M. (2017). Safety and ethics in healthcare: a guide to getting it right. CRC Press.