Connor has been hospitalized following a suicide attempt.He has struggled with major depressive disorder for years, and it is much worse this time around.He seems almost out of his head and unable to communicate with his doctors.One doctor would like to use ECT as a treatment, but what ethical principle may suggest he should not, given that Connor cannot agree to or refuse the treatment in his present state of mind?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ethical principle that may suggest the doctor should not use ECT as a treatment in this situation is respect for autonomy. As Connor is unable to communicate with his doctors and cannot provide informed consent to the treatment, it would be a violation of his autonomy to proceed with the treatment without his consent. It may be necessary to explore alternative treatment options that are less invasive and do not require patient consent in order to respect Connor's autonomy while addressing his condition.

Connor Has Been Hospitalized Following a Suicide Attempt