What is moral distress
When an individual is constrained in their ability to act in line with their own morals
What is the animal rights theory
Animals are capable of possessing rights in the same way as human
What is a respect for nature theory
Humans have an obligation towards all of nature
What is virtue ethics
Unconcerned with the rightness or wrongness of individual actions and more focused on promoting the good in people
Why is ethics important in VetMed
Society places trust in us that we must not be taken for granted
What is deontology
The rightness or wrongness of an action is found in the action itself regardless of the consequences
What is contractarian ethics
The view that moral obligations stem from the ability to form contracts
We have an indirect obligation to animals as they matter to other humans
What are the 5 contemporary tools for dealing with moral dilemmas
Identify all possible courses of actions
Establish the interests of affected parties
Identify the ethical issues involved
Choose a logical course of action
Minimise the impact of the decision
What are some strategies for dealing with moral dilemmas and distress
6 Points
Look for guidance
Write it down
Seek evidence and professional advice
Phone a friend
Counselling
Self-care plan
What does the RCVS say about euthanasia
Primary duty to relieve suffering
Need to take into account owners wishes and circumstances
To refuse may be detrimental to the welfare to the animal\
Can direct owner to another source of advice if needed
