ETHICS CASE STUDY

Ethics Case Study - Jerry's Predicament



Ethics Case Study - Jerry's Predicament

Introduction

Jerry is filling in for the receptionist at the clinic for a few hours - during which a patient calls and insists that a prescription refill be sent to his pharmacy within thirty minutes. The patient insists that Dr. Williams is the patient's close friend and frequently gives the patient a small supply of Valium every time the patient has to fly (Fremgen, 2009). The situation is sensitive because Jerry is left in a position where he must decide to either send the prescription refill or refuse to do so. In both cases, there is the potential of the creation of medical complications; alongside the potential of being sued by the patient. This brief discussion will attempt to highlight if Jerry's medical training qualify him to issue this refill order and if it would have made a difference if the medication requested were for control of high blood pressure that the patient critically needs on a daily basis. Furthermore, the discussion will also give consideration to the possibility of an adverse reaction to the Valium while flying if Jerry does call in the refill; and the possibility of Jerry's eligibility for protection from a lawsuit under the doctrine of Respondeat Superior in such a scenario.

Discussion & Analyses

While Jerry may be a trained Medical Assistant and a Licensed Practical Nurse, both qualifications do not give him the authority to give patients a prescription refill. In essence, his medical training qualifies him to assist Dr. Williams - not to make decisions instead of Dr. Williams. In addition, if Dr. Williams does indeed approve of the small supply of Valium to the patient, a record of the same should be present in Dr. Williams' notes for the patient. Jerry can go ...