What is one function of medical ethics in decision-making?

One of the primary functions of medical ethics in decision-making is to guide ethical decisions to protect patient welfare. This reflects the fundamental principle of beneficence, which emphasizes the obligation of healthcare providers to act in the best interests of their patients. Medical ethics provides a framework for addressing complex situations where moral dilemmas may arise, ensuring that patient autonomy, justice, and non-maleficence are considered alongside beneficence. By focusing on patient welfare, practitioners can navigate difficult choices about treatment options, patient consent, and overall care strategies, ultimately leading to more humane and responsible healthcare practices.

Other options such as maximizing hospital profits or enhancing the speed of medical procedures do not prioritize patient welfare or ethical standards in the same way. Moreover, healthcare providers having complete control may not align with the ethics of shared decision-making, where patient involvement is crucial for ethical practice.