Medical Ethics

There have been several issues discussed in the last few pages but the major point is the importance of autonomy. Any concept of moral decision-making assumes that rational representatives are involved in making informed and voluntary decisions.
In health care decisions, our respect for the autonomy of the patient would, in a manner of speaking, mean that the patient has the capability to act with intent, with understanding, and without controlling influences that would diminish a free and voluntary act.
The important thing seems to be keeping the patient informed, making sure the patient is alert and coherent, and then listening to the patient and ultimately listening to what they want.
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