Medical Ethics

Latin for “first, do no harm,” from the Hippocratic Oath (discussed later in this chapter). Some consider this principle the most important of all the principles of medical ethics.

Doing good for others. A healthcare professional has an obligation to act in the patient's best interests.

The patient's right to choose or refuse care. Autonomy may be thought of as “control over one's destiny” and is the basis for the practice of informed consent. Freedom (of choice)—even to make the wrong decision—is the right of any adult patient who is competent.

In medical ethics, justice refers to the fair distribution of healthcare resources and decisions regarding who gets what treatment.

The patient deserves to know the truth about his or her illness or injury and medical treatment.

Primum non nocere
Beneficence
AutonomyJusticeTruthfulness

Courage
Honor (Integrity) HumilityKindnessRespect