An ethical dilemma is defined as a situation where two or more right values are in conflict

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Ethical dilemmas in the care of cancer patients near the end of life

W Y Ong et al. Singapore Med J. 2012 Jan.

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Abstract

By definition, an ethical dilemma involves the need to choose from among two or more morally acceptable options or between equally unacceptable courses of action, when one choice prevents selection of the other. Advances in medicine, increasing economic stress, rise of patient self-determination and differing values between healthcare workers and patients are among the many factors contributing to the frequency and complexity of ethical issues in healthcare. In the cancer patient near the end of life, common ethical dilemmas include those dealing with artificial nutrition and hydration, truth-telling and disagreements over management plans. It would stand the clinician in good stead to be aware of these issues and have an approach toward dealing with such problems. In addition, organisations have a responsibility to ensure that systems are in place to minimise its occurrence and ensure that staff are supported through the process of resolving dilemmas and conflicts that may arise.

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What is an ethical dilemma defined as?

What Is an Ethical Dilemma? The Oxford dictionary defines an ethical dilemma as, “a situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two courses of action, either of which entails transgressing a moral principle.”

Is defined as a situation where two or more right values are in conflict?

Moral dilemmas are situations in which the decision-maker must consider two or more moral values or duties but can only honor one of them; thus, the individual will violate at least one important moral concern, regardless of the decision.

What are the two types of ethical dilemmas?

There are several types of moral dilemmas, but the most common of them are categorized into the following: 1) epistemic and ontological dilemmas, 2) self-imposed and world-imposed dilemmas, 3) obligation dilemmas and prohibition dilemmas, and 4) single agent and multi-person dilemmas.

What is an ethical dilemma quizlet?

ethical dilemma. a conflict between two divergent moral challenges that one must resolve in deciding on the proper course of action, a struggle in deciding on good and evil. framework for ethical decisions making.