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Introduction
States the topic, the ethical dilemma in closed question format, two additional questions on topic/dilemma and the thesis statement based on the ethical dilemma.
Paragraph 2
Student provides a clear summary of preapproved source(s) to respond to questions posed in the introduction and shows a clear connection to the topic and ethical dilemma, using APA in-text citations properly, with no more than one direct quote. This must be 12-15 sentences in length.
Paragraph 3
Student provides a clear summary of preapproved source(s) to respond to questions posed in the introduction and shows a clear connection to the topic and ethical dilemma, using APA in-text citations properly, with no more than one direct quote. This must be 12-15 sentences in length.
Paragraph 4
Student discusses two opposing viewpoints/courses of action, that could be used to resolve the ethical dilemma. The student must use critical thinking skills based on their research, but, must develop these positions on their own, not using source material. The student needs to expand on each viewpoint proposed by explaining one advantage and one disadvantage for each viewpoint. This must be 10-15 sentences in length.
Paragraph 5
Student begins the paragraph with their well constructed thesis statement (from the introduction). Student must support their thesis with two ethical concepts, laws, theories, codes of ethics, discussed in the course, using their textbook for in-text citations. The course supports used should be paraphrased from the text and not quoted. The material used to support the thesis, must show a clear connection to the ethical dilemma and the viewpoint/course of action chosen by the student. This must be 12-15 sentences in length.
Conclusion (Paragraph 6)
Student must conclude by discussing the significance of this topic/dilemma to healthcare and how improving it will benefit all stakeholders affected. This should be a well organized discussion of the student’s assessment of their research, using critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills. This must be 10-15 sentences in length.
APA Reference Page (as last page of the essay)
Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Ethical Dilemma Paper
Follow this guide to structure and write your ethical dilemma paper effectively, focusing on clear organization and critical thinking.
1. Introduction
Begin your paper with a clear statement of the topic and the ethical dilemma you’re addressing. Frame the dilemma in closed question format. Then, pose two additional questions related to the topic or ethical dilemma. Finish your introduction with a thesis statement that directly addresses the dilemma, stating your position and setting the tone for the paper.
Example Introduction: The ethical dilemma of whether healthcare professionals should disclose a patient’s medical condition without consent poses a significant challenge in healthcare settings. Should healthcare providers ever disclose a patient’s information without their consent? How does patient autonomy play a role in this decision? What are the consequences of disclosing confidential information against the patient’s will? This paper will argue that while patient confidentiality is crucial, healthcare professionals must sometimes prioritize the duty to warn others in situations that threaten safety.
2. Paragraph 2: Summary of Preapproved Sources
In this paragraph, summarize the preapproved source(s) that you will use to answer the questions posed in your introduction. Provide a clear connection between the source and the ethical dilemma, explaining how it informs the questions you raised. Use APA in-text citations for proper referencing, and make sure the paragraph is 12-15 sentences long with only one direct quote.
Example Summary: According to Smith (2020), the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence often conflict with the need for confidentiality in healthcare. In situations where patient safety or the safety of others is at risk, providers are faced with difficult decisions. Research from Johnson et al. (2019) argues that prioritizing safety over confidentiality is not only ethical but legally mandated in certain circumstances, such as when a patient expresses intent to harm others. This research highlights the complexities of maintaining ethical integrity while balancing privacy concerns and the protection of third parties.
3. Paragraph 3: Another Source Summary
In this paragraph, summarize another preapproved source and continue building the connection between your topic and the ethical dilemma. Be sure to analyze how this source contributes to answering the questions from your introduction. Use APA citations for the source, and keep the paragraph 12-15 sentences long with only one direct quote.
Example Summary: Johnson (2021) argues that healthcare providers are bound by a code of ethics that supports patient autonomy but also recognizes the need for intervention in life-threatening situations. The American Medical Association’s (AMA) Code of Ethics emphasizes patient consent but makes exceptions in cases of public health risks. This balance between patient rights and public safety is crucial when faced with an ethical dilemma involving confidentiality. According to the AMA, professionals must navigate these complex scenarios with care, ensuring they are acting in the best interest of both the individual and society (AMA, 2020).
4. Paragraph 4: Opposing Viewpoints
In this paragraph, you will present two opposing viewpoints for resolving the ethical dilemma. Use critical thinking to develop these viewpoints on your own. For each viewpoint, explain one advantage and one disadvantage. This section should be 10-15 sentences long.
Example Opposing Viewpoints: One viewpoint is that healthcare professionals should always prioritize patient confidentiality, as it is a cornerstone of trust in healthcare. The advantage of this approach is that it ensures respect for patient autonomy and privacy. However, a disadvantage is that in situations where a patient’s actions pose a risk to others, confidentiality can prevent timely intervention. The opposing viewpoint is that healthcare providers should disclose information if it is necessary to prevent harm. An advantage of this stance is that it can save lives and prevent harm to third parties. The disadvantage is that it undermines trust in the healthcare system and could discourage patients from seeking care due to fear of their information being disclosed without consent.
5. Paragraph 5: Support for Thesis
In this paragraph, begin with your thesis statement from the introduction. Then, support your thesis with two ethical concepts, laws, theories, or codes of ethics discussed in the course. Paraphrase the textbook or course materials to connect these ideas to your ethical dilemma and viewpoint. This section should be 12-15 sentences long.
Example Support for Thesis: As stated in the introduction, healthcare professionals must sometimes prioritize the duty to warn others. This position aligns with the ethical theory of utilitarianism, which suggests that actions should maximize overall happiness and minimize harm (Jones, 2021). By disclosing a patient’s intent to harm others, the healthcare provider can prevent significant harm, thus supporting the greater good. Additionally, the AMA’s Code of Ethics emphasizes that public safety outweighs confidentiality in certain circumstances, which further justifies the ethical need to disclose information to prevent harm (AMA, 2020).
6. Conclusion (Paragraph 6)
Conclude your paper by discussing the significance of the ethical dilemma in healthcare. Reflect on how improving decision-making around confidentiality and safety will benefit all stakeholders involved. Use critical thinking and ethical reasoning to assess your research and conclusions. This section should be 10-15 sentences long.
Example Conclusion: The ethical dilemma surrounding patient confidentiality and the duty to warn others is a significant challenge in healthcare. Resolving this issue will improve patient safety, foster trust in healthcare providers, and protect public health. By establishing clearer guidelines and training programs, healthcare providers can better navigate these ethical challenges and ensure that their decisions align with both professional ethics and public safety needs. This will benefit patients, healthcare workers, and society as a whole.
7. APA Reference Page
Ensure your APA reference page follows proper formatting guidelines. List all the sources you cited in your paper, ensuring the references are in alphabetical order and correctly formatted according to the APA 7th edition standards.
By following this guide, you will have a structured and clear approach to writing your ethical dilemma paper. Be sure to critically analyze the information you research and connect it to your position, ensuring a well-supported argument.