Clinical judgment is complex and influenced by many factors related to the patient and caregiving situation. This requires a comprehensive approach, one in which there is a willingness to consider all factors involved in patient care and to partner with the individual, family, group, community, and/or belief systems.

Which of the following is essential for effective clinical judgment?

Choice A reason:

Ethics of Character, also known as virtue ethics, focuses on the virtues and moral character of the individual. While important, it does not specifically address the sense of duty that motivates an action.

Choice B reason:

Ethics of Consequence, or consequentialism, is concerned with the outcomes of actions. The decision to report a wrongdoing based on duty does not primarily consider the consequences but the moral obligation.

Choice C reason:

Ethics of Relationship emphasizes the importance of relationships and the responsibilities that arise within them. Although relationships are involved, Janice's action was guided by duty rather than relational obligations.

Choice D reason:

Ethics of Duty, or deontological ethics, is based on the idea that certain actions are inherently right or wrong, and individuals have a duty to perform the right actions. Janice's decision to report the theft was based on her sense of duty, aligning with this ethical theory.

Choice A reason: Organizational ethics refer to the values, standards, and norms that guide the behavior of individuals within an organization. While important, they are not typically encapsulated by laws or legal standards.

Choice B reason: Personal ethics are the principles that an individual holds about what is right and wrong. These are subjective and vary from person to person, and do not usually have the formal backing of law.

Choice C reason: Societal ethics are the moral guidelines observed by a society or culture. They can influence laws and regulations but are broader in scope, including unwritten social norms.

Choice D reason: Professional ethics are the correct answer because they are codified in laws, legal standards, and regulatory parameters. They provide a framework for professional conduct and are enforced by professional bodies to ensure accountability and integrity within a profession.