Decision Making - Professor Richard Kirk 2023

Professor Richard Kirk
MA FRCP FRCPCH
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Decison Making
Many of the decisions we make are fairly straightforward. For example a baby with simple TGA will require an arterial switch operation or will die. But there are other circumstances when making a decision in the best interests of a patient is extremely difficult - for example whether or not to list a child with severe neurological issues.
  1. Conflict between adolescents and their parents regarding treatment
  2. Conflict between family and doctors regarding treatment
  3. Conflict within a healthcare team
  4. Decisions surrounding palliative care and end of life
  5. Assessment of quality of life
  6. Best use of limited healthcare resources - for example donor organs, intensive care facilities, financial (hospital, government)

            
In these circumstances applying an ethical framework to the decision making process can be very helpful.
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