Why Do Physicians Sometimes Make Unilateral Decisions in Morally Important

question 8

Multiple Choice

Why do physicians sometimes make unilateral decisions in morally important situations?

• A) Moral decision making is reserved for physicians.
• B) Nurses are seldom aware of the patient's wishes and life context.
• C) There is sometimes a power imbalance in the health care setting.
• D) It is illegal for nurses to participate in moral decision making.

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Definitions:

Luchins

Refers to a series of experiments or the psychologist, Abraham Luchins, famous for his work on mental set and problem solving.

Fundamental Attribution Error

The tendency to overestimate the effect of disposition or personality and underestimate the effect of situational factors when observing others' behaviors.

Attributions

Explanations for the causes of events or behaviors, often as internal (personal) or external (situational) factors.

Behavior

The actions or reactions of an organism or system, usually in relation to its environment.