The diagram below provides a framework for examining ethical issues individually or as a group. Following this process will help you organize the facts and contextual paramaters of the dilemma, so that you can look at the situation objectively and choose a course of action based on logic rather than emotions. Select each step to learn more about it.

Step 3: Clarify Influencing Factors & Barriers Gather and review additional information from the practice setting and professional literature including: Medical facts (e.g., patient history, diagnostic results, risks, complications). Barriers (e.g., conflict between personal and professional values; opposing interprofessional perspectives; competing interests; controlling environments). Individual characteristics (e.g., culture, religion, relationships).