Pretend that you are a surgeon at a local hospital. Seven patients need a heart transplant but there is only one heart donor at
this time. All of the patients are eligible to receive this heart. All patients are physically able and all have compatible tissue and blood typing. From the list below, you will need to choose which patient should receive the heart. Patient Waiting List
31-year-old male; dentist at the height of his career; married but no children
21-year-old female; accomplished violinist; blind
40-year-old male; teacher; married with 2 children
15-year-old female; unmarried, 6 months pregnant
35-year-old male; Roman Catholic priest
17-year-old female; waitress; high school dropout; supports/cares for a brother who is severely disabled
38-year-old female; pharmacy technician; engaged to be married next year.
When we make ethical decisions (like the one above) they are shaped by our values, past experiences, and our attitudes about life, people, and ethics. Please reflect carefully and give a thoughtful response to the following question. Your answers should reflect how your life experiences, values and attitudes have shaped your decision.
After determining which patient you would choose to receive this heart transplant, describe how your decision was influenced by your values? Attitudes? Prejudices?
