Beneficence – the duty to do good

Double effect – when both good and harmful effects accompany an action (chemo). Balance should favor the good.

• An action in the pursuit of a good outcome is acceptable (palliative analgesia)

Justice – all cases treated equally, no special preference

• Equal share according to ned, effort, contribution, merit, and free-market exchange → Medicare

Autonomy - pts make their own decisions

• Schedule follow up and discuss direct care with pts if they leave
• Use POA when pt unable to understand situation and make own medical decisions
• Pts choose to share health info with others to the extent and via the method they prefer. Discuss disclosure with pts

Assent - Pediatric pt’s involvement in medical decision making

• Non-binding
• Can be overridden by parental or surrogate informed consent
• Decision making capacity
• Informed consent
• Exceptions to Informed Consent
• Substance abuse
• Apology Laws
• Geriatric Surgery and End of Life Care
• Physician-assisted death