Summary Of The Situation Ethics Case

The Fact
In the case, a 22-year-old woman was born in a small town and has mental disability “Down syndrome” and repeated pneumonia. However, her father left the family, which consists of Ms. T, her mother and younger sister when she was in age of 6. She could do her simple duties and enjoy watching TV. 22 year later, she was having serious pneumonia that causes kidney failure and liver damage. Thus, she was in need of dialysis that would help to live for 10-20 years or she would probably die within a few weeks due to not performing dialysis. Because of the complications, she could not understand the situation 's risk or decide for herself. Because of her complaining from uncomfortable procedures and being afraid of injections, all of her family members, unanimously, decides that not to dialyze is the best decision financially and

I have this decision based on “Utilitarianism Principle”, which means that the right ethical decision to do is what produces the best for the greatest number of people. To illustrate, there are many patients, diagnosed with kidney failure, who would benefit from this decision. Moreover, according to Ms.T’s family, it is loving to let her die rather than let her suffer from pain - based on the law of love “Situation Ethics”. Even though the decision presents a moral question, it would be ethically the right decision. Also, according to Principlism, the option would achieve the family’s decision and values (Autonomy). Yet, the patient would not be harmed suffering to live longer, through using intravenous tube or complex procedures (Nonmaleficence). Also, it would be good for her and her family to avoid dialysis (Beneficence). Personally, the justice, in this care, is to let her die without any intervention