What constitutes an ethical dilemma in medical practice?

An ethical dilemma in medical practice arises when healthcare providers encounter situations where they must navigate conflicting moral principles. This often occurs when the right course of action is not clear-cut because two or more ethical considerations present themselves—such as a patient's autonomy versus the provider's duty to promote health or intervene for the patient's safety.

For example, a physician may face an ethical dilemma if a patient refuses a life-saving treatment that the physician believes is necessary. Here, the conflict is between respecting the patient's right to refuse treatment and the physician's ethical obligation to do no harm.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial for healthcare providers, as it informs their decision-making process and ensures that they are not only compliant with legal standards but are also upholding ethical principles that guide patient care. Each situation may require careful reflection and discussion among the healthcare team to arrive at an ethically sound resolution.