Principles of Beneficence and Non-Maleficence

The values of beneficence and non-maleficence are the main topics that this chapter focuses on (Baillie et al., 2013). Essentially, beneficence is the principle that challenges medical practitioners to endeavor to do good. On the other hand, non-maleficence concerns avoiding doing evil. The chapter makes it clear that it is very difficult for practitioners to uphold these principles. The limits of their talents and the practical challenges of adopting these principles are among the hurdles that they face (Baillie et al., 2013). A mention of the role that society plays in defining the application of these principles is also made. The chapter encourages practitioners to borrow insights from society as they seek to adopt these principles. Practitioners are also advised to embrace such other values as justice as they deliver care (Baillie et al., 2013). These values enable them to do good and to avoid doing evil.

As part of its exploration of the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence, the chapter also examines a number of other principles. These principles include proportionality, the obligations of patients and the provider of medical services and the obligation of the surrogate (Baillie et al., 2013). Concerning the principle of proportionality, the chapter encourages practitioners to ensure that their actions do not violate the dignity of their patients. They must also ensure that their actions deliver some benefit which justifies any necessary evil that result from these actions (Baillie et al., 2013). This balance allows for the application of the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence. On the question of the obligation of the patient, the chapter states that the patient has a number of responsibilities. These responsibilities include taking charge of his/her health and safeguarding the interest of their family and society (Baillie et al., 2013). The chapter also offers a discussion on the obligations of healthcare providers and surrogates. The chapter makes it clear that practitioners should ensure that all their actions cause more good than harm. They should also take measures to shield patients from harm. Respecting the autonomy of the patient and taking actions that are in the best interest of the patient are the key obligations of the surrogate (Baillie et al., 2013). Since the surrogate has the power to make decisions for a patient, he/she must ensure that these decisions enhance the wellbeing of the patient.

Reference

Baillie, H. W., McGeehan, J., Garrett, T. M. & Garrett, R. M. (2013). Principles of Beneficence and Non-Maleficence. In Health Care Ethics. Sixth Edition. Upper

Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education Inc.