Medical Ethics Quiz Questions With Answers
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Test your understanding of healthcare principles with our Medical Ethics Quiz, designed to explore the ethical challenges faced by healthcare professionals. This quiz offers a comprehensive overview of key ethical principles, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice, providing a solid foundation for decision-making in medical practice.
With a variety of medical ethics exam questions and answers, you'll navigate real-world scenarios that address critical topics such as patient consent, resource allocation, and end-of-life care. The quiz includes medical ethics MCQs that highlight the dilemmas and decisions shaping the medical field today. This quiz is an excellent tool to enhance your knowledge Read moreand critical thinking skills. Strengthen your understanding of ethical practices and their impact on patient care.
Medical Ethics Questions and Answers
- 1.
Doctors do have an obligation to:
- A.
Help individuals with disabilities
- B.
Rescue persons who are in danger
- C.
Prevent and remove harm
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
Doctors have an obligation to help individuals with disabilities because they are trained professionals who can provide medical assistance and support to improve the quality of life for those with disabilities. They also have a duty to rescue persons who are in danger because they possess the skills and knowledge to provide immediate medical attention and save lives in emergency situations. Additionally, doctors are responsible for preventing and removing harm by taking necessary precautions, providing preventive care, and treating illnesses and injuries to ensure the well-being of their patients. Therefore, all of the options mentioned - helping individuals with disabilities, rescuing persons in danger, and preventing and removing harm - are obligations that doctors must fulfill.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What does the term "non-maleficence" primarily refer to?
- A.
The principle of promoting patients' rights to make autonomous decisions.
- B.
The principle of maximizing the overall benefit of healthcare resources.
- C.
The obligation to avoid causing harm or minimizing potential harm to the patient.
- D.
The principle of equitable distribution of limited medical resources.
Correct Answer
C. The obligation to avoid causing harm or minimizing potential harm to the patient.Explanation
The term "non-maleficence" in medical ethics pertains to the principle of avoiding harm or minimizing potential harm to the patient. It underscores the moral obligation of healthcare providers to not cause unnecessary harm to the patient and to act in a way that prevents harm when possible. This principle complements the principle of beneficence, which focuses on promoting the patient's well-being.Rate this question:
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- 3.
What ethical concept is central to the dilemma of allocating limited organ transplants and justifying who receives them?
- A.
Autonomy
- B.
Veracity
- C.
Justice
- D.
Fidelity
Correct Answer
C. JusticeExplanation
The ethical concept central to the allocation of limited organ transplants is "justice." Organ allocation decisions are complex and involve considerations of fairness and equitable distribution of a scarce resource. The principle of justice in medical ethics emphasizes the need for fair and just allocation methods to ensure that patients have an equal opportunity to receive organs based on need and medical criteria rather than factors such as socioeconomic status or privilege.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of these statements is true?
- A.
Virtue Ethics is about an individual of good character doing the wrong thing
- B.
Teleological theory stresses out duties and obligations
- C.
Providing sufficiently clear action guides is one of the weaknesses of virtue theory
- D.
Virtue theory explicit grounding in the community are one of the strengths of this theory
Correct Answer
D. Virtue theory explicit grounding in the community are one of the strengths of this theoryExplanation
Virtue theory's explicit grounding in the community is one of its strengths because it recognizes that virtues are not solely determined by an individual's personal beliefs or desires, but are shaped and influenced by the values and norms of the community. This recognition allows for a more holistic understanding of virtue ethics, as it acknowledges the importance of social context in shaping moral character. By emphasizing the role of the community, virtue theory promotes a sense of shared responsibility and encourages individuals to consider the impact of their actions on others.Rate this question:
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- 5.
"Patient-physician privilege" best describes:
- A.
Autonomy
- B.
Justice
- C.
Truth-telling
- D.
Confidentiality
Correct Answer
D. ConfidentialityExplanation
Confidentiality refers to the ethical principle of keeping information shared by a patient with their physician private and protected. It is an important aspect of the patient-physician relationship, ensuring that patients feel comfortable sharing sensitive information without fear of it being disclosed without their consent. Confidentiality allows patients to trust their physicians and promotes open and honest communication, enabling healthcare providers to provide appropriate and effective care.Rate this question:
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- 6.
All of these are true about Confidentiality EXCEPT:
- A.
Based on trust
- B.
Always should be maintained of all personal, medical and legal information
- C.
Applied to conversations between doctors and patients
- D.
Sometimes keeping of it would cause harm
Correct Answer
B. Always should be maintained of all personal, medical and legal informationExplanation
Confidentiality is a principle that ensures privacy and protection of sensitive information. It is based on trust and is typically applied to conversations between doctors and patients. However, the given answer states that confidentiality should always be maintained for all personal, medical, and legal information. This is incorrect because there are certain situations where keeping confidentiality may cause harm, such as when there is a risk of harm to oneself or others. In such cases, healthcare professionals may have a duty to breach confidentiality to ensure safety.Rate this question:
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- 7.
All of the following are medical ethics theories EXCEPT:
- A.
Deontological Theory
- B.
Virtue Theory
- C.
Autonomy Theory
- D.
Teleological Theory
Correct Answer
C. Autonomy TheoryExplanation
The correct answer is Autonomy Theory. Autonomy theory is not a medical ethics theory. It is a principle that emphasizes the importance of respecting an individual's right to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare. Deontological theory focuses on following moral rules and duties, virtue theory emphasizes the development of virtuous character traits, and teleological theory focuses on the consequences of actions.Rate this question:
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- 8.
One of these is NOT TRUE about The Principle of Justice:
- A.
Requires people to be treated fairly.
- B.
Actions are consistent, accountable and transparent.
- C.
Ordered by court
- D.
Respect for the Law
Correct Answer
C. Ordered by courtExplanation
The principle of justice does not necessarily require that actions be ordered by a court. While courts play a crucial role in upholding justice, they are not the only means through which justice can be achieved. The principle of justice encompasses treating people fairly, ensuring actions are consistent, accountable, and transparent, as well as respecting the law. However, the requirement for actions to be ordered by a court is not a fundamental aspect of the principle of justice.Rate this question:
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- 9.
All of these are true about non-maleficence principle EXCEPT:
- A.
Includes an obligation not to inflict harm intentionally.
- B.
Includes informed consent and truth telling.
- C.
Physicians must refrain from providing ineffective treatments or acting with malice toward patients.
- D.
Offers little useful guidance to physicians because many beneficial therapies also have serious risks.
Correct Answer
D. Offers little useful guidance to pHysicians because many beneficial therapies also have serious risks.Explanation
The statement "Offers little useful guidance to physicians because many beneficial therapies also have serious risks" is NOT true about the non-maleficence principle.
The non-maleficence principle is one of the four fundamental principles of medical ethics and emphasizes the duty of healthcare providers to do no harm to their patients.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of these is not true about patients access to their notes?
- A.
Data belongs to patient
- B.
Third party information
- C.
Layman unable to cope with data.
- D.
Accuracy reduced by sharing.
Correct Answer
D. Accuracy reduced by sharing.Explanation
Sharing patient notes does not reduce accuracy. In fact, it can improve accuracy as it allows for better communication and collaboration among healthcare providers. Sharing patient notes ensures that all relevant information is accessible to different healthcare professionals involved in the patient's care, leading to better-informed decisions and more accurate diagnoses. Additionally, sharing patient notes with the patients themselves can also improve accuracy by enabling them to review and provide input on their own medical information, helping to identify any errors or discrepancies.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The key difference between virtue theory and the other ethical theories is that:
- A.
Virtue theory stress consequences of actions.
- B.
Virtue theory considers that actions must be good and not beneficial.
- C.
Virtue theory emphasizes the moral character of the individual.
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. Virtue theory empHasizes the moral character of the individual.Explanation
The correct answer is "Virtue theory emphasizes the moral character of the individual." This is because virtue theory focuses on the development of moral character and the cultivation of virtues, rather than solely on the consequences of actions or whether actions are beneficial. It emphasizes the importance of developing virtuous traits such as honesty, kindness, and courage, and believes that virtuous individuals will naturally make ethical choices. This distinguishes virtue theory from other ethical theories that may prioritize the consequences of actions or the idea of what is good or beneficial.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Practical Obstacles to the Practice of Confidentiality include:
- A.
Modern medical treatment involves a small number of medical professionals.
- B.
Information about patients is increasingly stored on large electronic databases, which may not be secure.
- C.
Approved research
- D.
A+B
Correct Answer
B. Information about patients is increasingly stored on large electronic databases, which may not be secure.Explanation
The correct answer is "information about patients is increasingly stored on large electronic databases which may not be secured absolutely." This is because modern medical treatment involves a small number of medical professionals is not a practical obstacle to the practice of confidentiality. While it may limit the number of individuals who have access to patient information, it does not address the issue of secure storage of electronic data. Similarly, approved research is not a practical obstacle to confidentiality as it is conducted under strict ethical guidelines. Therefore, the only valid obstacle mentioned is the potential lack of absolute security in storing patient information on electronic databases.Rate this question:
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- 13.
All of the following are characteristics of Consequential Theory EXCEPT:
- A.
Choosing the actions that provide the best outcome.
- B.
An act is moral if it could become a universal rule for society.
- C.
Study the outcomes of actions while analyzing moral activity.
- D.
B+C
Correct Answer
B. An act is moral if it could become a universal rule for society.Explanation
The correct answer is "An act is moral if it could become a universal rule for society." This statement does not align with the characteristics of Consequential Theory. Consequential Theory focuses on studying the outcomes of actions while analyzing moral activity and choosing the actions that provide the best outcome. The idea of an act becoming a universal rule for society is more closely related to the principle of Universalizability, which is associated with Kantian ethics rather than Consequential Theory.Rate this question:
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- 14.
In medical ethics, which principle is most closely associated with the concept of "do no harm"?
- A.
Justice
- B.
Autonomy
- C.
Beneficence
- D.
Non-maleficence
Correct Answer
D. Non-maleficenceExplanation
The principle of non-maleficence in medical ethics is based on the idea of "do no harm." It obligates healthcare providers to avoid causing harm to patients, whether through action or inaction. This principle ensures that treatments or interventions do not result in unnecessary harm or risk. While beneficence focuses on promoting the patient’s well-being, non-maleficence is specifically about avoiding harm. Autonomy refers to respecting patient choices, and justice relates to fairness and equality in medical treatment. Non-maleficence underpins much of medical practice, ensuring patient safety is prioritized.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The virtues that are held to be socially valuable are:
- A.
Honesty
- B.
Kindness
- C.
Truth-telling
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "All of the above" because honesty, kindness, and truth-telling are all considered socially valuable virtues. These virtues promote positive interactions and relationships within society. Honesty ensures trust and integrity, kindness fosters empathy and compassion, and truth-telling upholds transparency and fairness. By choosing "All of the above," it acknowledges that all three virtues have societal importance and contribute to a harmonious and ethical community.Rate this question:
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- 16.
If you do what's right regardless of who's around, you have the characteristics of:
- A.
Power
- B.
Confidence
- C.
Honesty
- D.
Confidentiality
Correct Answer
C. HonestyExplanation
If you do what's right regardless of who's around, it means that you have the characteristic of honesty. Honesty is the quality of being truthful, sincere, and upright in your actions and words. It shows that you have integrity and are committed to doing what is morally and ethically right, regardless of the circumstances or the people involved.Rate this question:
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- 17.
One of the strengths of the Utilitarian theory is that it helps resolve conflicts between individual and public duties of professionals. True or false?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Utilitarian theory is based on the principle of maximizing overall happiness or utility. In the context of professional duties, this theory can help resolve conflicts between individual and public duties by considering the consequences of actions. It prioritizes the greater good and aims to achieve the best outcome for the majority of people involved. By weighing the potential benefits and harms, Utilitarianism provides a framework for professionals to make ethical decisions that balance their individual responsibilities with the needs of the public. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Stopping a medication that is shown to be harmful is an example of :
- A.
Non-maleficence
- B.
Autonomy
- C.
Teleological theories
- D.
Beneficence
Correct Answer
A. Non-maleficenceExplanation
Stopping a medication that is shown to be harmful aligns with the principle of non-maleficence. Non-maleficence refers to the ethical obligation to do no harm or to minimize harm to the patient. In this situation, stopping the medication is a proactive measure taken to prevent further harm to the patient, demonstrating a commitment to their well-being and safety.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Double effect in medical ethics is usually regarded as the combined effect of:
- A.
Beneficence and Autonomy
- B.
Non-malpractice and Confidentiality
- C.
Autonomy and Justice
- D.
Beneficence and Non-malpractice
Correct Answer
D. Beneficence and Non-malpracticeExplanation
Double effect in medical ethics refers to the simultaneous occurrence of two outcomes when administering a medical intervention. Beneficence is the principle that requires healthcare professionals to act in the best interest of the patient, seeking to maximize benefits and minimize harm. Non-malpractice, on the other hand, refers to the ethical duty of healthcare providers to avoid causing harm to the patient. Therefore, the combined effect of beneficence and non-malpractice encompasses the ethical consideration of maximizing benefits while minimizing harm in medical decision-making.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The required theory of industrialized and technological societies, as well as the political activity itself is:
- A.
Virtue theory
- B.
Deontological theory
- C.
Manners theory
- D.
Teleological theory
Correct Answer
D. Teleological theoryExplanation
The teleological theory, also known as consequentialism, focuses on the outcomes or consequences of actions. In the context of industrialized and technological societies, this theory suggests that the political activity and the societal structures should be evaluated based on the overall benefits and results they produce. It emphasizes the importance of achieving desirable outcomes, such as economic growth, technological advancements, and social progress. This theory is often associated with utilitarianism, which seeks to maximize the overall happiness or well-being of the society.Rate this question:
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- 21.
All of these are Principles of Medical Ethics EXCEPT:
- A.
Autonomy
- B.
Beneficence
- C.
Honesty
- D.
Social Justice
Correct Answer
C. HonestyExplanation
The principle of honesty is not one of the recognized principles of medical ethics. Autonomy refers to respecting the patient's right to make decisions about their own healthcare. Beneficence emphasizes the duty of healthcare professionals to act in the best interest of the patient. Social justice focuses on the fair distribution of healthcare resources and equal access to healthcare services. However, honesty, although an important value, is not explicitly listed as a principle in medical ethics.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The capacity to think, decide, and act on the basis of thought and decision freely & independently (without any hindrance) best describes :
- A.
Confidentiality
- B.
Autonomy
- C.
Reasoned analysis
- D.
Virtue Theory
Correct Answer
B. AutonomyExplanation
Autonomy refers to the ability to think, decide, and act freely and independently, without any external constraints or interference. It emphasizes individual freedom and self-governance, allowing individuals to make their own choices and take responsibility for their actions. This concept is often associated with personal autonomy, where individuals have the right to make decisions about their own lives, and professional autonomy, where professionals have the freedom to make decisions within their field of expertise. Autonomy is an important ethical principle that promotes self-determination and respects individual rights and freedoms.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Informed Consent constitution includes all of the following EXCEPT:
- A.
Debates
- B.
Understanding
- C.
Voluntary
- D.
Agreement
Correct Answer
A. DebatesExplanation
The question is asking for an exception to what is included in the Informed Consent constitution. Informed Consent is a process where individuals are provided with information about a medical procedure or treatment, and they have the right to understand the information, voluntarily agree to it, and give their consent. However, debates are not typically a part of the Informed Consent process. Debates may occur among healthcare professionals or experts, but they do not directly involve the individual giving consent.Rate this question:
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- 24.
"Actions that can be taken to help prevent or remove harms or to simply improve the situation of others" are _____________.
- A.
Beneficent actions
- B.
Confidentiality maintaining actions
- C.
Use of EBM
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Beneficent actionsExplanation
Beneficent actions refer to actions that are taken to help prevent or remove harms or to simply improve the situation of others. These actions are aimed at promoting the well-being and welfare of others. They can include acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion towards others. By engaging in beneficent actions, individuals can contribute to creating a positive and supportive environment for others, ultimately leading to a better and improved situation for everyone involved.Rate this question:
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- 25.
According to the principle of Autonomy, patients have the right to make health decisions:
- A.
Free will and accord
- B.
No harm from physician
- C.
Access to their notes
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The principle of Autonomy states that patients have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare based on their own values and beliefs. This includes the right to exercise their free will and accord, meaning that they have the freedom to choose or refuse medical treatments or interventions. This principle also emphasizes that patients should not be harmed by their physicians and that they should have access to their medical notes, ensuring transparency and involvement in their own care. Therefore, the correct answer is "free will and accord."Rate this question:
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- 26.
In the context of medical ethics, which principle primarily emphasizes the duty of healthcare professionals to act in the best interest of the patient?
- A.
Autonomy
- B.
Beneficence
- C.
Non-maleficence
- D.
Justice
Correct Answer
B. BeneficenceExplanation
The principle of beneficence in medical ethics emphasizes the obligation of healthcare professionals to act in the best interest of the patient, promoting their well-being and taking positive steps to prevent harm. It requires physicians and caregivers to take actions that benefit the patient, including providing appropriate treatments and interventions. While autonomy refers to respecting a patient's right to make their own decisions, non-maleficence is about avoiding harm, and justice pertains to fairness in healthcare distribution. Beneficence is specifically focused on actively doing good for the patient.Rate this question:
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- 27.
"One of the weaknesses of the Deontological theory is it's ability to resolving conflicts among moral persons who disagree"
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement suggests that one of the weaknesses of the Deontological theory is its inability to resolve conflicts among moral persons who disagree. However, this statement is false. Deontological ethics, also known as duty-based ethics, focuses on the inherent moral obligations and principles that guide our actions. It emphasizes following moral rules and duties regardless of the consequences. While conflicts may arise, Deontological theory provides a framework for resolving them by prioritizing moral duties and principles over personal preferences or opinions. Therefore, the given statement is incorrect.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Sometimes, there are good reasons for overriding the truth-telling principle. Such as:
- A.
All patients with cancer or AIDS.
- B.
If the patients are from China.
- C.
Patients who do not want the truth if the news is bad.
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. Patients who do not want the truth if the news is bad.Explanation
In certain situations, it may be necessary to override the truth-telling principle for valid reasons. One such reason is when patients do not wish to know the truth, especially if the news is bad. Respecting the autonomy and emotional well-being of patients is crucial, and if they explicitly express their preference to not be informed about negative outcomes, it may be ethically justifiable to withhold the truth. This approach acknowledges the importance of patient-centered care and the individual's right to make decisions about their own healthcare.Rate this question:
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- 29.
One of these isn't one of the components of Medical Ethics:
- A.
Physician - Patient Relationship
- B.
The Relationship of the physician to the Ministry of Health.
- C.
Physician - Physician Relationship
- D.
The Relationship of the Physician to Society.
Correct Answer
B. The Relationship of the pHysician to the Ministry of Health.Explanation
The components of medical ethics include the physician-patient relationship, physician-physician relationship, and the relationship of the physician to society. These components focus on the ethical responsibilities and obligations of healthcare professionals towards their patients, colleagues, and the broader community. The relationship of the physician to the Ministry of Health is not typically considered as one of the core components of medical ethics, as it pertains more to the administrative and regulatory aspects of healthcare rather than the ethical considerations involved in patient care and professional conduct.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The theory that combines the strengths of two theories is:
- A.
Virtue theory
- B.
Deontological theory
- C.
Teleological theory
- D.
None of the theories combines the strengths of the other theories.
Correct Answer
A. Virtue theoryExplanation
The virtue theory combines the strengths of both deontological and teleological theories. Similar to the deontological theory, it emphasizes the importance of moral character and virtues in guiding ethical behavior. At the same time, it also recognizes the significance of the consequences and outcomes of actions, which aligns with the teleological theory. By considering both character and consequences, the virtue theory provides a comprehensive approach to ethics that incorporates the strengths of both theories.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Nov 18, 2024Quiz Edited by
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Nov 29, 2016Quiz Created by
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