Problem
I. Review the case of Joyce Brown. Discuss at least one legal conflict associated with this case. Identify the difference between a 201 and 302 Commitment Status. As a patient advocate, how would you define this patients rights and the role of paternalism? Provide at least two supporting references.
II. A volunteer that closely worked with actively infected Ebola patients was allowed to board an airline to return to the United States. Upon arrival in the U.S. the man felt ill and demonstrated flu like symptoms. After approximately two days he went to a local hospital ER for treatment. In the ER the patient was never asked about travel outside the U.S. nor did he volunteer (disclose) information regarding travel or active recent exposure to Ebola. The patient was prescribed antibiotics and discharged home. After two days the patients symptoms worsened and he returned to the hospital. During this second visit it was determined that he had Ebola. Additionally, the patient has children that have attended at least 3 different schools in the immediate area.
Based upon the current media coverage of Ebola being diagnosed in the United States (i.e. Texas) please answer the following questions:
i. Identify one key ethical principle associated with full disclosure of medical history/travel history of individuals presenting to U.S. hospitals with flu like symptoms.
ii. Why is full discloure of paramount importance? For example, in prevention of transmission (spread) to health care workers, family members, or the general public.
iii. Does religion/culture play a role in any of the above? Why/Rationale? Please cite valid reference.
iv. Do you see practical implications with the above questions and the COVID-19 pandemic? If so, briefly share.