Question

A nurse argues that we need to reform our health care system because we have a large number of people who are uninsured and end up needing expensive emergent care when low-cost measures could have prevented their illnesses. What ethical framework is she using to make this case?

a. Deontology
b. Ethics of care
c. Feminist ethics
d. Utilitarianism

Answer 1

The nurse's argument for health care reform is best described by the ethical framework of utilitarianism, as it focuses on maximizing overall well-being and minimizing costs for the greatest number of people, contrasting the more personalized focus of care ethics.

Step-by-step explanation:

The scenario you've described, involving a nurse advocating for health care reform on the basis that low-cost preventive measures could help avoid more expensive emergent care for uninsured individuals, aligns with the ethical framework of utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that suggests an action is morally right if it produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people. This nurse is emphasizing that by having a health care system that ensures more people have access to preventive care, overall well-being will improve, and the costs associated with emergency care will decrease. This reduces the burden on the health care system and society at large, which is a utilitarian perspective.

In contrast, the ethics of care, which might initially seem relevant due to the focus on nurturing and care, is more personalized and relational, emphasizing direct care relationships and feelings for individuals with whom one has a significant personal connection. Considering the broad impact on society's health care and economic system aligns more closely with utilitarian principles rather than individual relational ethics suggested by care ethics. Thus, d. Utilitarianism is the best answer among the given options.