Exploring Ethical Theories Among Medical Residents in Clinical Situations: A Cross-Sectional Study

Human beings are faced with numerous behavioral options in different situations, but they can only choose a limited number of them. Ethical beliefs, values, and principles guide individuals in decision-makings. This study focuses on medical residents' perspectives towards four ethical principles (Deontology, Utilitarianism, Virtue, and Principlism) in various clinical situations. This descriptive-analytical study was performed cross-sectional basis among a population of medical residents of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Data were gathered by multi-stage cluster sampling method using a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic information and five different clinical scenarios. The data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS22. The results of this study showed that there was no significant relationship between gender, specialty, year of study, and the four ethical principles mentioned in the participants. However, a significant correlation was observed between the types of scenarios and their alignment with a particular type of decision or ethical theory. The ethical philosophy of medical residents has been evolving gradually over time, even before entering the residency period. Therefore, focusing on practical ethics training and the commitment of residents to implementing the principles and values of professional ethics can shape the ethical philosophy of residents towards professional ethics and humanity.