The chaplain's role in bioethical decision-making.
With advances in medical technology, difficult questions of "What should be done?" and "Who should decide?" are a daily occurrence in hospitals. This paper reports the results of a survey of Canadian chaplains with respect to their involvement in bioethical decision-making. The survey suggests that chaplains make a significant contribution to discussion and resolution of bioethical dilemmas. Using a case study, the paper elaborates on the chaplain's role in bioethical decision-making, and indicates how such participation can influence both cost containment and risk management.
Simmonds
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Wellesley Hospital, Toronto.
D000328:Adult; D026688:Bioethical Issues; D002170:Canada; D002604:Chaplaincy Service, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D002977:Clergy; D003363:Cost Control; D003657:Decision Making; D004992:Ethics, Medical; D006801:Humans; D033183:Interdisciplinary Communication; D008020:Life Support Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008297:Male; D010327:Pastoral Care; D010348:Patient Care Team; D024382:Professional Role; D012308:Risk Management; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D009927:Tissue and Organ Procurement; D028761:Withholding Treatment