Determine the core principles and competing issues

In 6 – 8 pages, apply the 9-step Ethical Decision-Making Model outlined in Hepworth et al. (2017) to the case study described below in APA format. Organize the paper using headings for each step. The 9-step Ethical Decision-making Model is the one related to social workers. Succinctly describe the case study and dilemma in your own words. Apply the 9-step Ethical Decision-Making Model to the case study. Organize the paper using headings for each step of the model. Be specific when identifying ethical principles and standards from the NASW Code of Ethics. Identify relevant state laws by statute. What guidance would you seek from your supervisor, colleagues, and legal experts? Identify at least two courses of action and the consequences for each action. Be specific when describing the rationale for choosing, implementing, and evaluating a particular course of action. As a social worker, what situations or settings might you anticipate an ethical dilemma? What are the strengths and limitations of using an ethical decision-making model?
Case Study- Mr. Jenkins is an 81-year-old White male who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease 7 years ago. He currently resides at home with his wife of 50 years and attends a daycare center for older adults 5 days a week. Three months ago, his condition worsened. Mr. Jenkins’ primary care provider informed the family and daycare staff that Mr. Jenkins lacks the capacity to make informed medical decisions for himself. He also cannot communicate his needs or carry out activities of daily living.

One month ago, Mr. Jenkins was diagnosed with cancer. Mr. Jenkins’ wife and biological children decided not to pursue medical treatment to prolong his life. Mr. Jenkins’ daughter informed the staff at the daycare center that the family requests that the daycare staff not provide any life-sustaining or life-prolonging interventions (e.g., cardiopulmonary resuscitation) in case Mr. Jenkins has a life-threatening medical event (e.g., heart attack, stroke). The daycare center staff asked for Mr. Jenkins’ advanced health care directive. The daughter and Mr. Jenkins’ primary care provider confirmed that Mr. Jenkins did not have an advanced health care directive. The daycare center staff explained that it would be difficult to honor the family’s request since there is no advanced health care directive in place. Mr. Jenkins’ family argued that before his condition, Mr. Jenkins stated that he did not wish for any life-prolonging treatment or assistance. The daycare center staff are fearful of lawsuits and professional ethics violations that may occur if the center honors the family’s request.

The 9-step ethical decision-making model is the following:
1.) Identify the problem or dilemma
2.) Determine the core principles and competing issues
3.) Review relevant National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics
4.) Review applicable laws and regulations
5.) Consult with colleagues, supervisors, or legal experts
6.) Consider the possible and probable courses of action and examine the consequences of those options
7.) Decide on a particular course of action
8.) Develop a strategy for effectively implementing decision
9.) Evaluate the process and results to determine whether the intended outcome was achieved, and consider modification for future decisions.

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