Gender Selection

Persuasive Essay # 104773

Ethics
Hot Topics
Medical and Health > Nursing

Gender Selection

An analysis of the ethics concerning prenatal gender selection with a focus on the nursing perspective.

1,264 words () | 9 sources | APA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses how the theories of utilitarianism and deontology both establish the act of prenatal gender selection as being morally and ethically wrong. It looks at how relational ethics focuses not on the act but on the person, but there is awareness of ethical principles. It also contends that nurses must use and understand the ethical perspectives and apply them in their everyday practice and how even though they will always be faced with ethical dilemmas, they are obligated to provide appropriate and quality care in every situation.

Outline:
Introduction
Position on Ethical Issue
Ethical Theories
Utilitarianism
Utilitarian View of the Issue
Deontology
Deontological View of the Issue
Relational Ethics
Relevance to Nursing and Relational Ethics
Nursing Perspective
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"On the basis of relational ethics, relationships are the site for ethical action and healthy and ethical relationships allow for human growth (Bergum & Dosseter, 2005). The focus is on the relationship where the nurse and client are connected. Rather than making judgments regarding the rightness or wrongness of actions, this is an action ethic because people act in ways that result in goodness but without being absolutely sure if they are right (Bergum & Dosseter). The important point is that people often take the action that appears wise but also experience some uncertainty about their choice. What gives moral meaning to the action is the relationship. The action chosen is not simply done but changes over time with new experience. "

Sample of Sources Used:

Bergum, V. & Dosseter, J. (2005). Relational ethics: The full meaning of respect. Hagerstown, MD: University Publishing Group.
Garrett, T.M., H. Baillie & Garrett, R.M. (2001). Health care ethics: Principles and problems, 4th edition. New Jersey, Prentice Hall.
Glannon, W. (2005). Biomedical ethics. New York: Oxford University Press.
Hughes, S. (2002). Ethical theories and dilemmas. British Journal of Perioperative Nursing, 6(1), 211.
Lavine, M. (2006). Select-a-sex. National Post, May 4, A13. Retrieved June 29, 2007 from Proquest.