Medical Ethics for Physicians

The purpose of this course is to briefly review the history, theory, and practical application of ethical principles to issues that arise in clinical practice. The goals of the course are to heighten awareness and promote self-reflection, address knowledge gaps, improve communication and decision-making skills, and promote reasonable, humane care for patients and families. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented. 


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to: 


1. Outline the history of bioethics, including the evolution of the physician-patient relationship.

2. Discuss the Karen Ann Quinlan and Nancy Cruzan cases as they influenced national and state healthcare policies.

3. State the purpose of the Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) of 1990 and the role of healthcare professionals.

4. Differentiate between the types of advance directives.

5. Discuss the national ethical standards frameworks and their relationship to ethical decision making for patients.

6. Define terminology regarding bioethics, including the principles guiding medical ethical decision making.

7. Compare and contrast various ethical theories as they relate to health care.

8. Describe elements of setting up a workable ethical decision-making framework.


This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.