What it means
A problem in which ethical principles conflict, so no choice fully satisfies all of them. For example, respecting a client's right to refuse treatment (autonomy) can conflict with the wish to prevent harm (beneficence). Ethical dilemmas are worked through by gathering facts, naming the principles involved, involving the client and family, and, when needed, asking the ethics committeeETH-iks kuh-MIT-eeA group in a health care facility that helps staff, clients and families work through difficult moral questions about care.Full entry for help.
At a glance
| Also written | ethical dilemmas |
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Related terms
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.
ethics
The study of right and wrong, and the principles that guide good conduct and decisions.
ethics committee
A group in a health care facility that helps staff, clients and families work through difficult moral questions about care.
dilemma
A hard choice between two or more options, where each one has a real drawback.