PHI 413V Topic 3 Assignment/Biomedical Ethics in the Christian Narrative Applying the Four Principles

Applying the Four Principles: Case Study Part 1: Chart (60 points) Medical Indications Patient Preferences Beneficence and Non-maleficence Autonomy James is an 8-year old twin male presenting with complications of a strep throat infection called glomerulonephritis, kidney failure. His condition warrants immediate treatment due to further complications of elevated blood pressure and fluid build-up requiring temporary dialysis to relieve. James’ parents decided to forgo this treatment and employed a faith healer. When this was unsuccessful, the parents returned for the temporary dialysis option presented earlier in the week. James’ condition has now deteriorated even more, and he is now facing routine dialysis and a kidney transplant. the faith healing service later in the week. There is no mention in the case study of James’ opinion regarding his condition or treatment preferences. Quality of Life Contextual Features Beneficence, Non-maleficence, Autonomy Justice and Fairness The doctor explained James’ condition and prognosis, along with treatment options and risks and benefits to the parents. After the parents talk things over with each other they informed the doctor of their decision. Since James is a minor child, his parents are making his medical decisions for him. While the doctor has recommended temporary dialysis to resolve James’ kidney failure, his parents opt to remove him from the hospital, placing their faith in God, and taking James to a faith healer first. The parents agreed to return to the hospital after James’ doctor allowed the family to exercise autonomy through providing all available options for James’ condition. James’ parents opted for an autonomous role in placing their faith in God and a faith healer. While this did not prove fatal to James, his condition did deteriorate and placed his parents in a position of doubt and shaken faith, wondering why and whom God was punishing. James is in need of a kidney transplant and neither his parents, nor family friends, and church members are a tissue match. James’ nephrologist meets with the parents and explains that since James has a twin