Applying the Four Principles: Case Study
Part 1: Chart (60 points)
Based on the “Healing and Autonomy” case study, fill out all the relevant boxes below. Provide the information by means of bullet points or a well-structured paragraph in the box. Gather as much data as possible.
Medical Indications
Beneficence and Nonmaleficence

Patient Preferences
Autonomy

* Medical indications refer to the facts used to make a diagnosis and determine the nature of a health problem.
* Beneficence involves acting with the best intention while non-beneficence requires healthcare providers to prevent harm from occurring to the patient.
* James’ parents acted in his best interests even though it was obvious that his condition would worsen if not attended to by a doctor.
* They had no intent to harm James and they reported back to the hospital when his condition worsened.

* A patient’s preference is the expression of that patient’s choices. Autonomy focuses on the right of an individual to make a personal choice (Frank, 2013).
* From the case study, it is evident that the patient is underage (8 years), thus, unable to exercise his autonomy.
* However, James’ parents should have consulted with him to ensure he is aware and accepts any decision they make.
* The clinician should have educated the parents concerning James’ right of preference in terms of autonomy.

Quality of Life
Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Autonomy

Contextual Features
Justice and Fairness

* Quality of life relates to important medical elements of the life of an individual prior to and after receiving treatment.
* James’ condition improved after continuously undergoing dialysis.
* Nevertheless, his condition would be much better if he undergoes a kidney transplant. In this regard, his parents are torn between allowing his brother to donate his kidney or rely on faith.
* From a beneficence point of view, the parents should allow James to get a kidney transplant because his condition worsened when they relied on faith.
* However, they should consult James and his brother before making any decision.

* Contextual features refer to the familial, legal, and social surroundings that impact an individual healthcare decision (Gillon, 2018). James’ parents are influenced to rely on their faith rather than allow James to have a kidney transplant.
* The conflict of interest arises when Jame’ tissues match with that of his brother.
* James’ parents think that if faith does not heal their son, then it is only just and fair if one of them donates the kidney rather than their other son.

Part 2: Evaluation
Answer each of the...