Healing and Autonomy: Applying the Four Principles of Medical Ethics

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

Providing medical attention to James is based on the Beneficence and Nonmaleficence principles. Both the doctor and James’ parents are making decisions that are in his best interest.

Autonomy reflects the role of Mike and Joanne in making decisions for James, because he is a minor. The nephrologist, even though he might disagree with some of their decisions, agrees and only offers them open advice.

Quality of Life
Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Autonomy

Contextual Features
Justice and Fairness

There is need to consider all the treatment options available for James, to improve the quality of his life. Before making decisions that are less practical and more spiritual, James’ parents should involve him by carefully explaining the risks, costs, benefits, and outcomes.

Justice and Fairness should be focal when making medical decisions for James. These aspects should encompass the legal and social elements involved in decision-making.

Part 2: Evaluation
Answer each of the following questions about how the four principles and four boxes approach would be applied:
1 In 200-250 words answer the following: According to the Christian worldview, how would each of the principles be specified and weighted in this case? Explain why. (45 points)
The four principles are all important and will need to be balanced for optimal results. A Christian should first consider the principle of beneficence. When a loved one, especially a young child, the parents will first demonstrate their care and love towards their child. Care, love, and kindness are significant aspects of the beneficence principle (Kaldjian, 2019). In the case study, James’ parents can be seen considering the wellbeing of their son first and taking a lot of effort to ensure he is attended to. Non-maleficence will then come in, being demonstrated in how parents place effort in ensuring that no harm meets their children (Pipien, 2018). According to the case study, James’ parents are seeking several alternatives so that their son can be healed. Their actions mean that they are cautious, such tha...