In an inpatient clinical setting, a patient refuses surgical
intervention in favor of medical management for coronary
artery disease. The health care delivery team and the
patient’s family favor surgical intervention.
Theory of deontology
Deontology is an ethical theory that relies on already set rules and principals to determine the verdict on
what is right and wrong. The theory relies principals derived from universal morals laws and regulations
such as “Do not cheat”. Deontology posits that people should remain professionals by performing their
duties as prescribed in the code of conduct. This method correlates with human instincts on what is or
not ethical.
Unlike consequentialism, which evaluates actions based on their outcomes, deontology does not require
a cost-benefit analysis of a circumstance. Because you have to obey clear guidelines, you avoid
subjectivity and unpredictability.
By applying this model, as a nurse I will advise the patient on the significance of surgical intervention
for coronary artery disease. I would educate the patient on the
benefits of using surgery against medical management. These
efforts would be geared towards convincing the patient to
accept the medical procedures by the application of the
theory of Deontology.
Theory of teleology
The teleology ethical viewpoint, in contrast to the deontological approach, prioritizes outcomes above
process. A results-oriented approach defines ethical action in terms of positive or negative results. The
most ethical decisions are those that benefit the most people. Utilitarianism is the most frequent
teleological approach, which emphasizes the greatest good for the most significant number of people.
When applying autonomous ethical principle, I will inform the patient that they have the right to self-
determination and freedom to make personal choice regarding treatment procedures, however,
Can this dilemma be resolved solely on the theories of
deontology and teleology? Why or why not? How would you
resolve the issue? When discussing resolutions, focus on the
following ethical principles: autonomy, beneficence,
nonmaleficence, veracity, fidelity, paternalism justice, and
respect for others.% Discussion questions (links to objectives
#1, #2).
Grading Guidelines Item points
Identify and define issues in dilemma 5
Outline all options for resolution 10
Identify best option with justification 10
Briefly discuss hypothetical application and
evaluation
5
Overall structure of paper (citations, grammar,
logical flow, clarity, structure, spelling, APA
format) * It is ok to use first person for this
assignment
20
Total points 50
