Who Should Implement Force When It's Needed and How Should It Be Done Compassionately?

AMA J Ethics. 2021 Apr 1;23(4):E311-317. doi: 10.1001/amajethics.2021.311.

Abstract

This case questions the comparative moral permissibility of 2 different uses of force-actions done against a patient's will-in the course of that patient's care: covert medication administration and use of physical or chemical restraint. The commentary considers what constitutes the most compassionate use of force for this patient and how it should be implemented.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antipsychotic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Drug Administration Routes*
  • Empathy*
  • Ethical Analysis
  • Haloperidol* / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Haloperidol