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Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example

Based on the required topic study materials, write a reflection about worldview and respond to following:

In 250-300 words, explain the Christian perspective of the nature of spirituality and ethics in contrast to the perspective of postmodern relativism within health care.

In 250-300 words, explain what scientism is and describe two of the main arguments against it.

In 750-1,000 words, answer each of the worldview questions according to your own personal perspective and worldview: (a) What is ultimate reality? (b) What is the nature of the universe? (c) What is a human being? (d) What is knowledge? (e) What is your basis of ethics? (f) What is the purpose of your existence?

Remember to support your reflection with the topic study materials. Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

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While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion. Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

Worldview analysis and personal inventory

Part 1.

Christians view spirituality as the prism of religion and theology in which an all-powerful God exists that has control over everything. In fact, the spirituality is a reflection of the Christian quest for purpose, meaning and truth in life, seeking to introduce a transcendental perspective to the human experience. This implies that spirituality serves both a symbolic and theological function. In addition, Christians view ethics as conformity with the dictates of spirituality especially when there is no ambiguity over expectations. The Christian perspective of spirituality and ethics has implications for health care through evaluating it as practiced ethics since it seeks to lessen human suffering from disease with restoring and augmenting wellbeing (Igboin, 2015). Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

Postmodern relativism is based on the notion that there is no absolute truth. It acknowledges that although there are those who subscribe to spirituality and believe that human life has transcendental implications, it would be wrong to disparage the belief that human life does not have transcendental implications. In essence, postmodern relativism accepts that all contrasting ideas are equally valid and should not be discarded simply because they are contradictory. Concerning ethics, postmodern relativism considers it as a truth that changes based on the circumstances. That is because what is unethical for one group will similarly be unethical for another group. This has implication for health care since it forces medical personnel to be more cognizant of what the patients want. For instance, medical personnel could consider assisted suicide as ethically right, particularly in palliative care, while a group of patients could consider it as unethical (Zavada, 2019). Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

Part 2.

Scientism is the view that hard sciences that can provide factual and testable data that can be replicated (such as astronomy, physics, biology and chemistry) are the only source of genuine and true knowledge about reality. In fact, it notes that although soft sciences offers some knowledge about reality, only hard sciences can offer superior knowledge. That is because hard science is based on falsification, experimentation and skepticism in the search for basic explanatory principles about world reality. In addition, soft sciences (such as religion, ethics and philosophy) are only partially acceptable on the basis of their inherent subjective nature and are considered as private issues of personal opinion. This implies that any claims that accept knowledge from soft sciences as factual scientific truth is an indication of intolerance and bigotry. Overall, scientism advances the notion that only hard sciences have the intellectual authority to provide real knowledge (Moreland, 2018).

Although scientism appears valid, there are two arguments that invalidate the notion. Firstly, any reality presented by hard science is simply a propositional truth that is provisional and is likely to change as scientific approaches become more advanced. To be more precise, hard sciences apply methodological approaches that only offers a perspective of reality, and is not a catalog of irrefutable facts or inflexible principles. Similar to the way hard sciences is disputable, is the same way in which soft science is disputable and adapts to newly presented evidence. Secondly, scientism is tyrannical since it promotes a dangerous brand of bloodless rationalism that disregards soft science although they are important for hard science. For instance, it disregards noble human endeavors such as literature, painting and music that are thought provoking through willfully denying or ignoring conclusions from hard sciences (Briggs, 2019).

Part 3.

(a) What is ultimate reality?

The ultimate reality is that humans are the product of interactions with the environment to include the neighborhood, education, parents, government, media, and so on. Through interaction with the environment, every individual is subtly influenced and shaped to comprehend how and why they exist. For instance, it is not surprising for an individual to ascribe to the religion that his or her parents ascribe to. Overall, the ultimate reality is only limited by experience and reason, which can influence the capacity to adequately understand and truly grasp the nature of human existence. Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

(b) What is the nature of the universe?

The universe is a static existence that is subject to constant change through the process of evolution, competition, and energy conversion. Firstly, the universe experiences evolution through adaptability and selection where only the most suitable biological entities that can outcompete other biological entities are able to survive even as they acquire the limited available resources. Secondly, competition is an inherent occurrence that determines who gets the best or worst resources. Finally, the universe is reliant on energy conversion in a well-structured system with the sun being the main source of energy that powers all other activities to include life and gravitational rotation of the earth.

(c) What is a human being?

A human being is a biological entity characterized through biological speciation and the capacity for higher thinking. Firstly, they are characterized through biological speciation with every human being identified as
Homo sapiens
. The speciation is validated by DNA profile similarities that indicated biological capacity to reproduce. Secondly, they have a capacity for higher thinking that allows them to adapt the environment to their needs through developing better food, clothing and machines as well as controlling all other animals. Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

(d) What is knowledge?

Knowledge refers to the set of skills, information and facts that are acquired through experience (practical) and education (theoretical that can be from formal or informal processes). Through acquiring knowledge, individuals gain an awareness and familiarity with different situations. In fact, it consists of recognizing differential awareness whose limitations are defined through awareness. Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example. For instance, all nurses have knowledge of nursing concepts, but the depth of knowledge will differ based on experience and level of education that determine awareness limitations of the different nursing concepts.

(e) What is your basis of ethics?

There are two basis of ethics. The first basis of ethics is the personal perspective that is reliant on what I consider right and wrong based on my beliefs through interacting with the environment, such as what my religion, culture, community, and family believe in Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example. The second basis of ethics is the public perspective that is based on public beliefs expressed through principles such as confidentiality principles that protect personal information. The personal and public perspectives all determine how I approach ethics with the public perspective taking precedence when the two perspectives are in conflict.

(f) What is the purpose of your existence?

The purpose of my existence is to live to my full potential, improve the world, and leave this world not worse than I found it so that my future generations are not placed at a disadvantage. I can live to my full potential through acquiring competent professional skills and applying this skills in earning a living. I can improve the world by having an analytical mind that notices the problems around me and proposing solutions to these problems. I can leave the world not worse that I found it through being cognizant of the impact of all my actions on eth environment and ensuring that I do not contribute to environmental degradation. Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example.

References

Briggs, W. (2019).
In opposition to scientism
. Retrieved from https://wmbriggs.com/post/26885/

Igboin, B. (2015). Spirituality and medical practice: a Christian perspective.
Indian Journal of Medical Ethics
, 12(4). doi: 10.20529/IJME.2015.054. Retrieved from http://ijme.in/articles/spirituality-and-medical-practice-a-christian-perspective/?galley=html

Moreland, J. (2018).
What is scientism?
Retrieved from https://www.crossway.org/articles/what-is-scientism/

Zavada, J. (2019).
Postmodernism definition
. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/what-is-postmodernism-700692 Worldview Analysis and Personal Inventory essay example

Based on ”Case Study: Fetal Abnormality” and other required topic study materials, write a 750-1,000-word reflection that answers the following questions:

What is the Christian view of the nature of human persons, and which theory of moral status is it compatible with? How is this related to the intrinsic human value and dignity?

Which theory or theories are being used by Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson to determine the moral status of the fetus? What from the case study specifically leads you to believe that they hold the theory you selected?

How does the theory determine or influence each of their recommendations for action?

What theory do you agree with? Why? How would that theory determine or influence the recommendation for action?

Remember to support your responses with the topic study materials.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

Case Study: Fetal Abnormality

Jessica is a 30-year-old immigrant from Mexico City. She and her husband Marco have been in the United States for the last three years and have finally earned enough money to move out of their Aunt Maria’s home and into an apartment of their own. They are both hard workers. Jessica works 50 hours a week at a local restaurant and Marco has been contracting side jobs in construction. Six months before their move to an apartment, Jessica finds out she is pregnant.

Four months later, Jessica and Marco arrive at the county hospital, a large, public, nonteaching hospital. A preliminary ultrasound indicates a possible abnormality with the fetus. Further scans are conducted, and it is determined that the fetus has a rare condition in which it has not developed any arms and will not likely develop them. There is also a 25% chance that the fetus may have Down syndrome.

Dr. Wilson, the primary attending physician, is seeing Jessica for the first time, since she and Marco did not receive earlier prenatal care over concerns about finances. Marco insists that Dr. Wilson refrain from telling Jessica the scan results, assuring him that he will tell his wife himself when she is emotionally ready for the news. While Marco and Dr. Wilson are talking in another room, Aunt Maria walks into the room with a distressed look on her face. She can tell that something is wrong and inquires of Dr. Wilson. After hearing of the diagnosis, she walks out of the room wailing loudly and praying aloud.

Marco and Dr. Wilson continue their discussion, and Dr. Wilson insists that he has an obligation to Jessica as his patient and that she has a right to know the diagnosis of the fetus. He furthermore is intent on discussing all relevant factors and options regarding the next step, including abortion. Marco insists on taking some time to think of how to break the news to Jessica, but Dr. Wilson, frustrated with the direction of the conversation, informs the husband that such a choice is not his to make. Dr. Wilson proceeds back across the hall, where he walks in on Aunt Maria awkwardly praying with Jessica and phoning the priest. At that point, Dr. Wilson gently but briefly informs Jessica of the diagnosis and lays out the option for abortion as a responsible medical alternative, given the quality of life such a child would have. Jessica looks at him and struggles to hold back her tears.

Jessica is torn between her hopes of a better socioeconomic position and increased independence, along with her conviction that all life is sacred. Marco will support Jessica in whatever decision she makes but is finding it difficult not to view the pregnancy and the prospects of a disabled child as a burden and a barrier to their economic security and plans. Dr. Wilson lays out all of the options but clearly makes his view known that abortion is “scientifically” and medically a wise choice in this situation. Aunt Maria pleads with Jessica to follow through with the pregnancy and allow what “God intends” to take place and urges Jessica to think of her responsibility as a mother.

The Question of Moral Status: A Case of Fetal Abnormality and the Dilemma of Abortion versus Religious Beliefs

Introduction

Moral status is the employment of ethical principles in the consideration of the importance of living things and their value, in as far as life is concerned (Gray, 2019). In an examination of the theories of moral status, some theorists clearly believe that life is equal regardless of the living thing under consideration, while others believe it is not. These theories have placed some sort of hierarchy or levels of consideration for moral standing. For example, Tauer (2001) quotes Warren in her1997 book
Moral Status
as considering all living things to be having the same moral standing (status). This is from human beings with complete full moral status (FMS) to the least significant single-celled organisms. This paper examines in this context the matter of a deformed fetus that is also likely to have cognitive deficiencies if carried to term.

The Christian View

The Christian view of the nature of human persons is that human beings right from conception are entitled to full moral status just by virtue of being a human being, all other considerations (like cognition status) notwithstanding (Gray, 2019; Studocu.com, n.d.). This view is compatible with the theory of moral status that is based on human properties (Studocu.com, n.d.). This is the religious or philosophical theory (Gray, 2019). The theory states that it is only human beings that possess moral status among all the other living things. All the others, including plants and animals, were created to serve the interests of the human being. It goes on to elaborate that the human person acquires this full moral status the moment that they are conceived in the womb. Thus according to this Christian and philosophical theory based on human properties, the status of a fetus and that of a grown complete human person with all cognitive functions intact is the same in as far as full moral status is concerned (Gray, 2019; Studocu.com, n.d.). This is related to the intrinsic human value and dignity in that the only characteristic for FMS is the fact of becoming a human being (at conception). What this implies is that this quality is innate or intrinsic, and human beings are conceived with it. In other words, human life is sacred right from conception.

The Theories Exhibited by Jessica, Marco, Maria, and Dr. Wilson in the Case Study

This case study involves a fetus that will not only be born with a deformity (lack of limbs), but also a 1 in 4 probability of having Down syndrome. This means that there is a high likelihood that the child will also be mentally challenged with cognitive (learning and thinking) deficiencies. From the case scenario, therefore, Jessica and Aunt Maria clearly subscribe to the religious/ philosophical theory of moral status based on human properties. As such, to them a human being possesses full moral status right from conception, regardless of their physical and mental deficiencies (Gray, 2019; Studocu.com, n.d.). Despite being concious of the reality of her precarious socio-economic status into which a mentally and physically challenged infant would impose further strain, Jessica still believes that “all life is sacred.” She therefore does not agree with Dr. Wilson’s view that aborting the baby is the best option. As for Aunt Maria, she is clearly religious and would not entertain any thought of terminating any life, whether already born or intra-uterine. She is clearly of the same theory as Jessica, which says that based on (intrinsic) human properties (of full moral status) all human life from conception is sacred. She characteristically therefore advises Jessica, despite the overwhelming medical evidence, to carry the pregnancy to term and play her role “as a mother.” Dr. Wilson on his part clearly subscribes to the moral status theory based on cognitive properties (Studocu.com, n.d.). Other authorities refer to this theory as the Kantian theory of moral status after Emmanuel Kant (Gray, 2019).  This particular theory of moral status holds that a living thing (human being) is only entitled to full moral status if they possess and can demonstrate “awareness, memory, understanding, and thinking.” This is capacity for cognition. Clearly, this being still a fetus it does not satisfy this criterion and hence it does not possess any moral status. But most importantly, the Kantian theory avers that this is essentially an “all-or-nothing position” (Gray, 2019). That is one either has cognitive ability or not, for possession of moral status. This fetus, from the medical tests, will certainly likely not have this cognitive capacity even if it s let to be born and grow (because of the possibility of Down syndrome). Dr. Wilson additionally belongs to the school of thought of the moral status theory based on relationships. He has a doctor-patient obligation which in this case does not confer moral status to Jessica’s unborn child (Studocu.com, n.d.). Finally, Marco – although apparently ambivalent – belongs also to the moral status theory of Kant that is based on cognitive properties. He “find[s] it difficult [that] the pregnancy and the … disabled child [will be] a burden and a barrier to their economic security and plans.” As such the fetus has no moral status because of the physical and possible cognitive disability.

My Position

I take the view that moral status in this case should be decided solely based on the theory of Kant or cognitive properties. The fetus either has cognitive potential (now) or cognitive ability (later) or not. This is what will confer moral status on it. I take this position as it will be in the best interest of the child to be aborted as a fetus rather than being born only to suffer the rest of their life. In fact, the moral status theory of sentience is in support of this (pain and suffering should not be caused to a living thing) (Studocu.com, n.d.). As the case study presents, however, the fetus has a significant likelihood of being born with Down syndrome-induced cognitive deficiency which they’ll carry for life. My theory position will thus influence recommendation for action in that letting the fetus live will be tantamount to condemning it to a lifetime of misery and suffering because of its physical and cognitive deficiencies.

 

References

Gray, K. (2019). Moral status: Definition, philosophy, and criteria. Retrieved from
https://study.com/academy/lesson/moral-status-definition-philosophy-criteria.html

Studocu.com (n.d.). Theories of moral status. Retrieved from
https://www.studocu.com/en/document/oakland-university/biomedicine-and-disease/lecture-notes/theories-of-moral-status/1044276/view

Tauer, C.A. (2001). Review: The types of moral status.
The Hastings Centre Report
, 31(1), p. 45. Doi: 10.2307/3528734

The Ethical Theory of Principlism in Biomedical Ethics in the Christian Narrative Context: A Case Study

Introduction

The ethical theory of Principlism introduced by Beauchamp and Childress in the
Principles of Biomedical Ethics
is also sometimes referred to as the “Georgetown Approach.” It comprises of four main principles namely respect for (patient) autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, and fairness or justice. Nonmaleficence refers to the act of healthcare workers not intentionally causing harm to their patients, while beneficence calls for healthcare workers to always work and do everything for the benefit of the patient (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; Page, 2012; McCarthy, 2003). The four major ethical principles above happen to be common to almost all the available ethical theories, aside from Principlism. They strive to harmonize ethical principles with socio-cultural and religious beliefs (Advanced Practice Toolkit, 2018).

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The principle of respect for autonomy dictates that the healthcare professional should respect the decision of care taken by a mentally competent and adult patient or relative of patient. The professional must not object to the decision even if it appears unsound and irrational. This means no healthcare professional has the moral authority to overrule the decision taken by a mentally sound patient or a competent relative concerning their care. Moreover, they must also first obtain consent for any procedure on the patient after thorough explanation of consequences (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; McCarthy, 2003). The ethical principle of fairness or justice on its part dictates that the health professional and the health institution have a distributive and criminal responsibility in so far as the patient’s condition and conduct are concerned. This is in relation to the patient’s condition and its interaction with other members of the society. Resources must be shared fairly (like available organs for transplantation), and matters like a patient intentionally attempting to infect another with a deadly disease (a criminal act) must be reported by the health worker to the relevant authorities (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; McCarthy, 2003).

Applying the Four Principles: Case Study Part 1 (Chart)

Medical Indications

Beneficence and Nonmaleficence

Patient Preferences

Autonomy

Beneficence dictates that the physician do the best for James who now has kidney failure and not allow harm to befall him (nonmaleficence). Hence the decision to put him on immediate dialysis. Also, the suggestion by the physician to consider Samuel as a potential donor after failure to get a suitable one is an act of beneficence. However, the physician must also assess the potential risks to Samuel in donating a kidney to James, as required by the principle of nonmaleficence (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; Page, 2012; McCarthy, 2003).

The principle of autonomy states that Mike and Joanne as the parents of the minors have the last say in deciding what happens to them. It is them who must not only agree to the physician’s suggestions, but also give informed consent for any procedure (including dialysis) to be done. It is for this reason that Mike and Joanne’s decision to forego dialysis for James and take him to a faith healing crusade has to be respected by the physician. Additionally, the suggestion by the physician that Samuel be the organ donor to his twin brother is subject to approval and consent by both parents; as required by respect for autonomy (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; McCarthy, 2003). This means that the decision as to whether James will get one kidney from his brother or wait for God to perform his miracle on him is the parents’.

Quality of Life

Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Autonomy

Contextual Features

Justice and Fairness

To save James (nonmaleficence) and improve his quality of life (beneficence) the physician has suggested immediate dialysis. However, the parents must first give their consent for that to happen (autonomy). This is the same case with the suggestion of transplantation by the physician.

The principle of justice and fairness requires that the physician and the health institution consider James with priority in the list of those waiting for transplantation based on the urgency of the situation.

 

Applying the Four Principles: Case Study Part 2 (Evaluation)

From a Christian standpoint, of the four ethical principles of Principlism the most pressing one in this case study is nonmaleficence. As stated above, this is the principle that states that no harm should be brought upon the patient by the actions of those taking care of him (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; McCarthy, 2003). This is consistent with a study that was conducted by Page (2012). In the survey conducted by the use of a questionnaire, it was found that student healthcare workers actually ranked nonmaleficence highest among the four principles. Conversely, they ranked beneficence or “truth-telling” as the least important (Page, 2012). Arguably, this is also the same factor that is motivating the religious parents of James and Samuel.  As such, their refusal to immediately allow James to undergo dialysis and opt for faith healing is informed partly by fear that the procedure (dialysis) might also harm James. Equally, the parents’ reluctance to buy into the idea that Samuel donates one of his kidneys to James is also a result of fear that Samuel may remain in a precarious health situation after donating his kidney. In all this, the general Christian view therefore is that God cannot allow harm to befall any of his creation.

From a Christian point of view, again, a Christian person might rank the four principles in order of priority from the highest to the lowest as follows: nonmaleficence, beneficence, justice, and autonomy. As explained above, a Christian will most likely view nonmaleficence as the most important of the four. This is because it is very unChristian to want to cause harm to another human being. Beneficence should come second for the simple reason that it is the opposite of nonmaleficence. Beneficence is the act of doing good to the other person and carrying out all activities with the intention of ultimate benefit to them, in the context of a patient and care giver (Encyclopedia.com, 2016; Page, 2012; McCarthy, 2003). For a Christian person, the act of not intending to do harm to the patient (nonmaleficence) is automatically supported by a need and wish to do what benefits the patient (beneficence). The third principle from the top in this hierarchy would be justice. For a Christian, after refusing to harm their “neighbor” and deciding to only do what benefits the said “neighbor,” the next thing they would want for this person is nothing but justice and fairness. He would want this person to be treated justly and fairly in terms of not only sharing available resources, but also preventing harm to them by those with criminal intent for instance. Lastly and at the bottom of the list would be respect for autonomy of decision by the patient or relatives.

Conclusion

The biomedical ethical theory of Principlism with its four principles of respect for autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice closely conforms to and agrees with common socio-cultural and religious preferences and beliefs. This makes it better placed to be a reference point in ethical decision-making in clinical practice.

References

Advanced Practice Toolkit (1 May 2018).
Ethical Principles
. Retrieved from
https://www.advancedpractice.scot.nhs.uk/law-ethics/ethics/ethical-principles.aspx

Encyclopedia.com (2016).
Principlism
. Retrieved from
https://www.encyclopedia.com/science/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/principlism

McCarthy, J. (2003). Principlism or narrative ethics: Must we choose between them?
Journal of Med Ethics; Medical Humanities
, 29(2), 65-71. Doi: 10.1136/mh.29.2.65

Page, K. (2012). The four principles: Can they be measured and do they predict ethical decision making?
BMC Medical Ethics
, 13(10). Doi: 10.1186/1472-6939-13-10

Case Study: End of Life Decisions

George is a successful attorney in his mid-fifties. He is also a legal scholar, holding a teaching post at the local university law school in Oregon. George is also actively involved in his teenage son’s basketball league, coaching regularly for their team. Recently, George has experienced muscle weakness and unresponsive muscle coordination. He was forced to seek medical attention after he fell and injured his hip. After an examination at the local hospital following his fall, the attending physician suspected that George may be showing early symptoms for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative disease affecting the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The week following the initial examination, further testing revealed a positive diagnosis of ALS.

ALS is progressive and gradually causes motor neuron deterioration and muscle atrophy to the point of complete muscle control loss. There is currently no cure for ALS, and the median life expectancy is between 3 and 4 years, though it is not uncommon for some to live 10 or more years. The progressive muscle atrophy and deterioration of motor neurons leads to the loss of the ability to speak, move, eat, and breathe. However, sight, touch, hearing, taste, and smell are not affected. Patients will be wheelchair bound and eventually need permanent ventilator support to assist with breathing.

George and his family are devastated by the diagnosis. George knows that treatment options only attempt to slow down the degeneration, but the symptoms will eventually come. He will eventually be wheelchair bound and be unable to move, eat, speak, or even breathe on his own.

In contemplating his future life with ALS, George begins to dread the prospect of losing his mobility and even speech. He imagines his life in complete dependence upon others for basic everyday functions and perceives the possibility of eventually degenerating to the point at which he is a prisoner in his own body. Would he be willing to undergo such torture, such loss of his own dignity and power? George thus begins inquiring about the possibility of voluntary euthanasia.

 

The practice of health care providers at all levels brings you into contact with people from a variety of faiths. This calls for knowledge and understanding of a diversity of faith expressions; for the purpose of this course, the focus will be on the Christian worldview.

Based on ”Case Study: End of Life Decisions,” the Christian worldview, and the worldview questions presented in the required topic study materials you will complete an ethical analysis of George’s situation and his decision from the perspective of the Christian worldview.

Provide a 1,500-2,000-word ethical analysis while answering the following questions:

How would George interpret his suffering in light of the Christian narrative, with an emphasis on the fallenness of the world?

How would George interpret his suffering in light of the Christian narrative, with an emphasis on the hope of resurrection?

As George contemplates life with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), how would the Christian worldview inform his view about the value of his life as a person?

What sorts of values and considerations would the Christian worldview focus on in deliberating about whether or not George should opt for euthanasia?

Given the above, what options would be morally justified in the Christian worldview for George and why?

Based on your worldview, what decision would you make if you were in George’s situation?

Remember to support your responses with the topic study materials.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is required

 

Case Study on Death and Dying

Introduction

Death and dying are a very challenging and bitter part of life, yet the reality of life. The nature of death generally involved deep religious and philosophical questions. Euthanasia is a controversial issue in bioethics (Saybey, 2016). Christian and worldview view death and aspects such as euthanasia differently. This paper will analyze the case study of George, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative disease where the patient eventually loses the ability to speak, move, eat, and breathe, and finally dies. The paper will specifically analyze George’s imminent death and the ethics involved in euthanasia as per Christianity perspective.

 

George’s suffering in light of the Christian narrative, with an emphasis on the fallenness of the world

In Christianity, suffering, and fallenness of the world go hand in hand. This began when God put Eve and Adam in the Garden of Eden where both cared for and nurtured God’s creating. Eve and Adam ate freely and did not experience any suffering until they tasted the fruit that God had warned them against, and this made them be chased from the garden of Eden (Shelly & Miller, 2009). This is where the fallenness of the world began and God separated himself from Eve and Adam following their sinning. Accordingly, according to the Christian narrative, the fallenness of the world was the beginning point of human suffering (Shelly & Miller, 2009). God pronounced a curse upon Eve and Adam and told them they would have to toil to get food. Therefore, human suffering is a curse from God and from that period, life changed.

Therefore, George can link his suffering to being a sinner since God declared sinning as the key cause of suffering. As human beings, we keep sinning from time to time, and often we fall short of God’s will. This can be comparable to the case of George. George might justify his suffering to the sinful nature of human beings (Shelly & Miller, 2009).  As human beings, we never like being subjected to the curse of God because we rejected God first at the Garden of Eden from the start. Human beings have corrupted everything God has given to humanity, and hence human beings served God’s judgment and the suffering that come with the judgment. Therefore, George can console himself in the words that every human being has sinned against God and thus it is expected to suffer (Shelly & Miller, 2009).

 

How would George interpret his suffering in light of the Christian narrative, with an emphasis on the hope of resurrection?

In Christianity, it is believed that God created everything existing in the world and Jesus came to earth to enable human beings to have a view of God’s image. Therefore, a Christian would interpret what is happening to George as being the will of God. According to Saybey (2016) suffering such as the one George is experiencing are only intended to bring human beings close to God and to make humans ware of Christ’s suffering. The Christian teachings that Jesus died basically changes the view and experience of death. Death is a tragedy and evil, but Jesus conquered death on the cross.  Therefore, death as a defeated enemy in the Christian narrative, human beings also have hope of defeating death and rising again when Christ comes back. The god of Christian is constantly redeeming what is broken and will also redeem human beings from death. This teaches human beings to be close to God and live according to His will. Perceiving suffering as the will of good helps Christians in remaining steadfast in their Christian beliefs, and this makes their Christian faith stronger (Shelly & Miller, 2009). If a Christian believes that suffering may be as a result of the sins of the past, this can give one a chance to repent the sins and go back to God. This indicates that God is an orderly God because He allows suffering to human beings to make them turn back from their sinful ways and experience God’s love. Even though some human beings may view their suffering as a punishment, it is still an indication that God has such a great love for humanity and encourages people to live according to God’s purpose. However, the bottom line is that even after death, Christians have the hope of resurrecting just as Jesus did. These reasons can assist George to evaluate his life and repent and at the same time believe that God has forgiven his sins and his suffering will end after death (Shelly & Miller, 2009). After repenting, George also has the hope that resurrecting again once Christ comes back for the church.

 

As George contemplates life with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), how would the Christian worldview inform his view about the value of his life as a person?

According to the Christian worldview, even in the midst of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), George should view his life as precious and a gift from God, and hence it should not be taken away by a human being, but God.  Accordingly, even with this agonizing disease, George is expected to endure pain and all experiences associated with the disease (Shelly & Miller, 2009). A painful experience such as the one George is experiencing should not make a person make a decision to end their lives. In Christianity, people believe that human beings are supposed to hold on to their faith even during painful sufferings.  George is still a valuable human being even in the face of a disabling and devastating disease like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Life is a precious gift from God and since then sin entered the world, suffering is part of everyone’s life.  Therefore, George’s life is still valuable to God and God has a reason why he allowed George to experience amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). George should try to figure out what God is trying to teach him with the disease and use his current condition and life, for the glory of God. Therefore, George should continue persevering the suffering in the virtue of respecting life and Christian’s teaching regarding the value of life, as being God’s precious gift (Saybey, 2016).

 

What sorts of values and considerations would the Christian worldview focus on in deliberating about whether or not George should opt for euthanasia?

The kind of values that the Christian worldview would focus on in deciding regarding is George should opt for euthanasia or not include that suffering is part of life and just like Christ suffered we should accept suffering (Shelly & Miller, 2009). Jesus died on the cross and before His death, he underwent significant suffering and at some point, asked God if it is His will, He should take away the cup of suffering. Therefore, George’s suffering is God’s will and therefore, he should accept the suffering and ask God for sufficient grace to be able to endure the suffering. In addition, God uses suffering to bring humanity closer to Him and make them repent for their sins. Accordingly, George should use the suffering to discover what God wants him to learn and get closer to God (Meilaender, 2013).

As per Meilaender (2013), expectations about life after death largely determine the way an individual welcomes the probability of death. If Christians view everything and especially suffering and death as per God’s will and the final hope of life after death and Jesus’ resurrection, this can assure a person that God is in control of everything. In this regard, George should view his life and sickness and God’s working in his life and being His will. Moreover, God has a purpose for our lives regardless of the suffering and only God is the giver of life.

 

Given the above, what options would be morally justified in the Christian worldview for George and why?

The morally justified option would be for George to continue living until God takes away his life. Therefore, euthanasia is not an option for George according to the Christian’s view. According to Christianity, human life is precious and a gift from God and hence taking human life and interfering with the process of God is unacceptable and morally wrong. In addition, Christian views suffering as part and parcel of life and also the plan of God and thus it is morally wrong to interfere with the plan of God (Shelly & Miller, 2009). Therefore, suffering and pain of a terminally ill person should be accepted by Christians just as Christ accepted his suffering on the cross.

My Decision if in George’s Situation?

Even though I am a Christian, if I was in George’s situation and facing the imminent suffering and disability associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), I would consider voluntary euthanasia.  Even though voluntary euthanasia is against Christianity, it is difficult to watch individuals suffer as a nurse and personally I would not want to experience such pain and suffering if there is an option of euthanasia (President’s Commission, 1981). Even if it is not morally right to choose euthanasia, the Bible states that God is forgiving and there is no single sin that cannot be forgiven.

Conclusion

Christianity views life as a gift from God and only God has the power to take away life. Suffering is part of life and God’s plan to bring his creation close to Him. A human being should, therefore, accept suffering and similarly, George should accept the suffering that comes with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Therefore, according to Christianity, it is not morally upright for George to consider voluntary euthanasia.

 

References

Meilaender G. (2013). Bioethics:
A Primer for Christians
, 3rd Edition. Michigan: Eerdmans.

Saybey B. (2016). Definitions of death: brain death and what matters in a person.
J Law Biosci
. 3(3), 743–752.

Shelly J & Miller A. (2009).
Called to Care: A Christian Worldview for Nursing
2nd Edition, Illinois: IVP Academic.

The United States. President’s Commission for the Study of Ethical Problems in Medicine and Biomedical and Behavioral Research (1981). Defining death: a report on the medical, legal and ethical issues in the determination of death.

In addition to the topic study materials, use the chart you completed and questions you answered in the Topic 3 about ”
Case Study: Healing and Autonomy
” as the basis for your responses in this assignment.

Answer the following questions about a patient’s spiritual needs in light of the Christian worldview.

In 200-250 words, respond to the following: Should the physician allow Mike to continue making decisions that seem to him to be irrational and harmful to James, or would that mean a disrespect of a patient’s autonomy? Explain your rationale.

In 400-500 words, respond to the following: How ought the Christian think about sickness and health? How should a Christian think about medical intervention? What should Mike as a Christian do? How should he reason about trusting God and treating James in relation to what is truly honoring the principles of beneficence and nonmaleficence in James’s care?

In 200-250 words, respond to the following: How would a spiritual needs assessment help the physician assist Mike determine appropriate interventions for James and for his family or others involved in his care?

Remember to support your responses with the topic study materials.

While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion

Social media plays a significant role in the lives of nurses in both their professional and personal lives. Additionally, social media is now considered a mainstream part of the process for recruiting and hiring candidates. Inappropriate or unethical conduct on social media can create legal problems for nurses as well as the field of nursing.

Login to all social media sites in which you engage. Review your profile, pictures and posts. Based on the professional standards of nursing, identify items that would be considered unprofessional and potentially detrimental to your career and that negatively impact the reputation of the nursing field.

In 500-750 words, summarize the findings of your review. Include the following:

Describe the posts or conversations in which you have engaged that might be considered inappropriate based on the professional standards of nursing.

Discuss why nurses have a responsibility to uphold a standard of conduct consistent with the standards governing the profession of nursing at work and in their personal lives. Include discussion of how personal conduct can violate HIPAA or be considered unethical or unprofessional. Provide an example of each to support your answer.

Based on the analysis of your social media, discuss what areas of your social media activity reflect Christian values as they relate to respecting human value and dignity for all individuals. Describe areas of your social media activity that could be improved.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

In this assignment, you will be writing a 1,000-1,250 word paper describing the differing approaches of nursing leaders and managers to issues in practice. To complete this assignment, do the following:

Select an issue from the following list: bullying, unit closers and restructuring, floating, nurse turnover, nurse staffing ratios, use of contract employees (i.e., registry and travel nurses), or magnet designation.

Describe the selected issue. Discuss how it impacts quality of care and patient safety in the setting in which it occurs.

Discuss how professional standards of practice should be demonstrated in this situation to help rectify the issue or maintain professional conduct.

Explain the differing roles of nursing leaders and nursing managers in this instance and discuss the different approaches they take to address the selected issue and promote patient safety and quality care. Support your rationale by using the theories, principles, skills, and roles of the leader versus manager described in your readings.

Discuss what additional aspects mangers and leaders would need to initiate in order to ensure professionalism throughout diverse health care settings while addressing the selected issue.

Describe a leadership style that would best address the chosen issue. Explain why this style could be successful in this setting.

Use at least three peer-reviewed journal articles other than those presented in your text or provided in the course.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion

In this assignment, you will propose a quality improvement initiative from your place of employment that could easily be implemented if approved. Assume you are presenting this program to the board for approval of funding. Write an executive summary (750-1,000 words) to present to the board, from which the board will make its decision to fund your program or project. Include the following:

The purpose of the quality improvement initiative.

The target population or audience.

The benefits of the quality improvement initiative.

The interprofessional collaboration that would be required to implement the quality improvement initiative.

The cost or budget justification.

The basis upon which the quality improvement initiative will be evaluated.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

Research a health care organization or network that spans several states with in the United States (United Healthcare, Vanguard, Banner Health, etc.). Assess the readiness of the health care organization or network you chose in regard to meeting the health care needs of citizens in the next decade.

Prepare a 1,000-1,250 word paper that presents your assessment and proposes a strategic plan to ensure readiness. Include the following:

Describe the health care organization or network.

Describe the organization’s overall readiness based on your findings.

Prepare a strategic plan to address issues pertaining to network growth, nurse staffing, resource management, and patient satisfaction.

Identify any current or potential issues within the organizational culture and discuss how these issues may affect aspects of the strategic plan.

Propose a theory or model that could be used to support implementation of the strategic plan for this organization. Explain why this theory or model is best.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

Prepare a 10-15 slide PowerPoint presentation, with speaker notes, that examines the significance of an organization’s culture and values. For the presentation of your PowerPoint, use Loom to create a voice-over or a video. Refer to the Topic Materials for additional guidance on recording your presentation with Loom. Include an additional slide for the Loom link at the beginning, and an additional slide for References at the end.

Outline the purpose of an organization’s mission, vision, and values.

Explain why an organization’s mission, vision, and values are significant to nurse engagement and patient outcomes.

Explain what factors lead to conflict in a professional practice. Describe how organizational values and culture can influence the way conflict is addressed.

Discuss effective strategies for resolving workplace conflict and encouraging interprofessional collaboration.

Discuss how organizational needs and the culture of health care influence organizational outcomes. Describe how these relate to health promotion and disease prevention from a community health perspective.

While APA style format is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and in-text citations and references should be presented using APA documentation guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.