Though knowledge of ethical theory is not mandatory in dealing with moral dilemmas in healthcare, theories on moral reasoning can assist in making a decision as to what course of action to take (Seedhouse, 2009). In this segment of the assignment, I will relate the use of sound reasoning in applying the ethical theories of utilitarianism and deontology to one such ethical dilemma. The case is that of John who just underwent cancer surgery and is now waiting for the results of a further biopsy. Pam, his wife, proposes that the results of the biopsy be deliberately withheld from John if the result is positive for metastases.
