Lack of sense of life and suicide: In which circumstances medical paternalism may be justified?

Authors

  • Mariana Espínola-Nadurille Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
  • José Antonio Sánchez-Barroso Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
  • Ricardo Páez-Moreno Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
  • María Alejandra Sánchez-Guzmán Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía “MVS”
  • Jesús Ramírez-Bermúdez Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Abstract

Aims: Description of a clinical case addressed by using a bioethical focus. Materials and methods: Relevant facts were clarified and moral problems were identified by moral deliberation; main ethical problem was selected and courses of action were suggested. Results and conclusions: In this clinical case the most prudent solution was justified paternalism. The practice of moral deliberation is essential since decisions frequently surpass medical techniques and demand the deliberation of moral values.

Keywords:

moral deliberation, lucid suicide, justified paternalism, violence and bioethics