ETHICS CASE STUDY

Ethics Case Study



Ethics Case Study

Introduction

The intimacy of human beings is one of the most cherished values that man has to value more than material goods. In the field of healthcare practices, these values are respected, even more than most legacy material that could receive. Principal values of patient care are rooted in freedom and dignity concepts in medical care.

Brief Description of Case

Jerry McCall is working as an office assistant at Dr. William's clinic. Jerry has received professional training as licensed practicing nurse and as a medical assistant. The case presents a scenario in which he attends to the phone calls receptionist during lunch time. Meanwhile, a patient calls to the clinic and asks Jerry about the prescription refill for Valium. The patient states that it is an antidepressant medication. The patient also asks the Jerry to prescribe the required drug to him as the patient had to leave for the airport within 30 minutes. The patient describes Dr. Williams as his personal friend and also states that Doctor used to prescribe him the Valium drug before flying. This creates a dilemma situation for the Jerry regarding should he prescribed the refill of medicine or not because he is alone in the office at the time of receiving a phone call.

Jerry's Medical Training and Issue of Order Refill

Jerry's medical training does not qualify him to approve the refilling order to the patient. Doctor's assistant position and LPN status of the Jerry does not grant the autonomy to take decisions related to the prescription of the drug to any patient in the absence of a doctor. Jerry has LPN status, but he is required to consult the doctor to convey the doctor's decision to the patient. Certified physician or only a doctor can determine the appropriateness of the drug Valium for the patient.

It is the duty of the doctor to determine whether a patient is in critical need of Valium before flying or not. Jerry medical qualification does not grant him permission to recommend any prescription to any patient irrespective of his position and relationship with the doctor. This could create a risk of closing the clinic because doctor's assistant does not possess sound knowledge related to examining the patient's health and determine the caution factors related to side-effects of the prescription (Lindh, 2009). Jerry can prescribe the order refill only if Dr. William left the prescription in ...