A terminally ill patient, with significant ascites, would be more comfortable after a paracentesis to remove the fluid, even though the procedure is painful and could cause abdominal organ damage. This procedure would be considered as which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order for the double effect standard to exist, four conditions must be present. The first condition is that the action itself must be good or at least neutral. The second condition is that the practitioner must intend only the good effect. The third condition is that the undesired effect must not be the means of attaining the good effect. Fourth, that there is a favorable balance between the desirable and undesirable effects. A situation where the patient would benefit from a paracentesis even though organ damage could result is an example of double effect. Therapeutic jurisprudence focuses on the impact of legal and ethical decisions on the psychological well-being of a person. Best interest standard is used to determine the best benefit from the options available when the patient's preferences are not known. Competent care is subjective and may or may not be evident in this situation.

A Terminally Ill Patient, with Significant Ascites, Would Be More