A dying patient is unable to take fluids by mouth and tells the nurse that "it's okay" since he's not thirsty anyway and is ready to die. The nurse ensures the patient has a functioning intravenous line and administers fluids around the clock. Which of the following ethical theories is this nurse implementing?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Act deontology is based on the personal moral values of the person making the ethical decision. The patient cannot take fluids, is not thirsty, and is ready to die. The nurse makes sure the patient has adequate fluid intake through intravenous lines. The nurse is making the decision that the patient is to continue to have fluids anyway. Rule deontology is based on the belief that certain standards for ethical decisions transcend the individual's moral values. Rule utilitarianism seeks the greatest happiness for all. Act utilitarianism attempts to determine which course of action will bring about the greatest happiness to a single individual. The nurse is not implementing rule deontology, rule utilitarianism, or act utilitarianism.

A Dying Patient Is Unable to Take Fluids by Mouth