Write an 875- to 1,225-word response to the ethical committee regarding your recommendation as a health care manager presented with this case. In your response, you should:
Identify the major stakeholders in the case.
Identify the ultimate decisions makers (e.g., medical team, parents, etc.) in the case.
Explain Baby Bundle’s rights in this case.
Describe the ethical theories or principles that pertain to the case.
Analyze your role as a health care manager in this ethics committee decision.
Based on your review of the case and the fact that the parents are not in agreement, state your recommendation to the committee for next steps.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Title: The Ethical Dilemma of Baby Bundle: A Health Care Manager’s Recommendation
Introduction: The case of Baby Bundle presents a complex ethical dilemma that requires careful consideration and analysis. As a health care manager, it is crucial to approach this case with sensitivity and adherence to ethical principles. This essay aims to identify the major stakeholders and decision-makers, analyze Baby Bundle’s rights, examine ethical theories or principles applicable to this case, discuss the role of a health care manager in the ethics committee decision, and finally, provide a recommendation for the next steps.
Major Stakeholders:
- Baby Bundle: The primary stakeholder in this case is the infant, Baby Bundle, who is at the center of the ethical dilemma.
- Parents: Both parents have differing opinions regarding the medical treatment for their child, making them significant stakeholders.
- Medical Team: The doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals involved in Baby Bundle’s care are crucial stakeholders.
- Hospital Administration: The hospital administration holds responsibility for ensuring the ethical and legal aspects of patient care.
- Ethics Committee: The committee tasked with reviewing and making recommendations regarding ethical issues in patient care.
Decision Makers: The ultimate decision-makers in this case are the medical team responsible for Baby Bundle’s care, guided by the input of the parents and the ethics committee.
Baby Bundle’s Rights: Baby Bundle has the right to receive appropriate medical care and interventions that promote their well-being. Additionally, they have the right to be protected from harm and to have their best interests considered when determining their course of treatment.
Ethical Theories or Principles:
- Autonomy: This principle asserts that individuals have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare. In the case of Baby Bundle, their autonomy is limited as they are an infant incapable of making decisions.
- Beneficence: This principle requires healthcare professionals to act in the best interest of the patient. The medical team must determine the course of treatment that maximizes Baby Bundle’s well-being.
- Non-maleficence: This principle emphasizes the obligation to do no harm. The medical team should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits when deciding the best course of action for Baby Bundle.
- Justice: This principle focuses on fairness and equality in healthcare. It is essential to ensure that Baby Bundle receives fair and equitable access to healthcare resources.
Role of the Health Care Manager: As a health care manager, the role in the ethics committee decision is to provide guidance and support based on ethical principles, legal considerations, and organizational policies. The manager should facilitate open and respectful communication among all stakeholders, ensuring that their perspectives are heard and considered in the decision-making process.
Recommendation to the Ethics Committee: Given that the parents are not in agreement, the ethics committee must consider the best course of action for Baby Bundle while respecting their rights and considering ethical principles. After careful analysis, I recommend the following steps:
- Facilitate Mediation: Encourage an open dialogue between the parents, medical team, and a neutral mediator to explore potential areas of agreement and resolve conflicts.
- Seek Legal Consultation: Consult with legal experts to determine whether there are any legal frameworks or precedents that could guide the decision-making process.
- Ethical Deliberation: Engage in a thorough analysis of the ethical principles involved in this case. Consider the potential benefits and risks associated with each treatment option, while prioritizing Baby Bundle’s well-being.
- Second Medical Opinion: Consider seeking a second opinion from an independent expert who can provide an objective evaluation of Baby Bundle’s condition and propose alternative treatment options.
- Best Interests Determination: If all other options have been exhausted and no consensus can be reached, it may be necessary to involve a court-appointed guardian to act in Baby Bundle’s best interests.
Conclusion: The ethical dilemma of Baby Bundle presents a challenging situation that requires careful consideration from all stakeholders involved. As a health care manager, it is crucial to navigate this complex situation while upholding ethical principles and ensuring the best possible outcome for Baby Bundle. By promoting open communication, seeking mediation, and considering all available options, the ethics committee can make an informed decision that prioritizes the well-being of the infant.
