20 Common Problems

This book explores and offers guidance for the 20 most common ethical problems in primary care settings. While many books in medical ethics focus on more abstract principles and their applications, this book answers practical questions about how to make ethical choices and balance interests in difficult clinical situations such as: what do you do when you suspect abuse; how do you keep patients informed when facing a gag rule; should I lie to my patient when I think it's in the patient's best interest; when should I treat a minor without the parent's consent. The topics include: advance directives, competency and decision making capacity, consultation and referral, genetic testing, home care/hospice, informed consent, managed care, refusal of treatment, suspected abuse and neglect, treating minors, treatment at the end of life, and more.