ethics questions

[icecoldstar]

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There are many threads on ethics questions, but none of them actually addresses the questions itself. For example, if a patient needs an amputation but vehemently refuses treatment, what would you do? I know there are arguments for both sides, but LEGALLY, what do physicians HAVE to do in that situation? I'm NOT asking for opinions, I'm asking what do they have to do according the rules/regulations? I'm in Florida if that makes any difference. Thanks.

 

[theseeker4]

There are many threads on ethics questions, but none of them actually addresses the questions itself. For example, if a patient needs an amputation but vehemently refuses treatment, what would you do? I know there are arguments for both sides, but LEGALLY, what do physicians HAVE to do in that situation? I'm NOT asking for opinions, I'm asking what do they have to do according the rules/regulations? I'm in Florida if that makes any difference. Thanks.

The answer will vary depending on the exact situation, the local laws, etc. That isn't the point of the ethical questions, the point is to see if you can address a situation, and defend your position. If you are ever face with a situation like you describe, you will have plenty of hospital ethicists and lawyers to consult before you do anything. In a truly emergent case, where you have no time to consult anyone, the default is to save the life; juries will be more forgiving of a doctor who does whatever he can to save a life, than they will be of a doctor who sits back and lets someone die without very clear evidence of the patient's wishes prior to the event/accident (such as a DNR on file and in hand).

We can't give you a specific, legally-sound answer for an obscure hypothetical situation, so opinions are all you can get on here.

 

[Goro]

The people asking the questions know that you don't have the medical or legal knowledge to deal with the situation in the way clinicans would, so don't sweat it. Most ethical questions have no right or wrong answer.

Just answer from your heart. If you don't like abortion, for example, you refer.

There are many threads on ethics questions, but none of them actually addresses the questions itself. For example, if a patient needs an amputation but vehemently refuses treatment, what would you do? I know there are arguments for both sides, but LEGALLY, what do physicians HAVE to do in that situation? I'm NOT asking for opinions, I'm asking what do they have to do according the rules/regulations? I'm in Florida if that makes any difference. Thanks.

 

[Mr Avante]

This questions are mostly personality indicators.
Chill.