Principles of Medical Ethics: Guiding Healthcare in the USA

Four fundamental principles of medical ethics in the USA: autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.

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Autonomy grants patients the right to make decisions about their care, even if not in their best interest.

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Beneficence focuses on healthcare providers acting in the patient's best interests, considering their well-being.

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Nonmaleficence emphasizes avoiding harm, weighing risks and benefits before treatment decisions.

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Justice ensures fair distribution of healthcare resources, regardless of demographics or social factors.

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Patients should be informed of treatment options, risks, and benefits to make informed decisions.

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Healthcare providers must minimize harm and provide the best possible care using their skills and knowledge.

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Ethical principles may sometimes conflict, requiring healthcare providers to carefully balance and decide on a case-by-case basis.

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