| Popis: |
I have chosen a title for this chapter which I expect will evoke strong disagreement. It suggests that many situations presenting for our decision are not ethical dilemmas at all but rather perplexing problems charged with economic, social, and extended therapeutic considerations. Much of this situational complexity can be attributed to the increased longevity of the human species, its own ability to enhance and prolong its biologic existence through its probing to discover and utilize technologic advances, and the economics of supply and variable demand. The conceptual development of this chapter dealing with ethical considerations in the care of patients with decubitus ulcers may erroneously suggest an absolutism in which all decision must conform to the set-forth objective principles in order to achieve any moral righteousness. There is no intent to command the individual conscience. I cannot, and any effort to do so would itself render this undertaking unethical. Yet, I do not endorse subjectivism. Furthermore, there is some more fundamental guidance than autonomy, paternalism, beneficence on which these qualities of human conduct are based. The nature of the human person is that fundamental. That is a simple enough statement. |
