Autonomy- the ability to make decisions for oneself
In most situations, a person can make their own decision regarding whether or not they want their organs donated, however in cases such as this where the individual whose organs are being donated cannot decide one must consider if this is a decision that can be made on behalf of another or if only the individual in question can make the decision. In this case one must consider whether, as Theresa herself cannot decide, who has the power to do so and what should they assume.
Maximize benefits- doing the most good and helping the most people
One must consider which outcome benefits they most people for the longest time in the most effective way, while there is almost never an option that satisfies all three, one must consider which one comes closest. In this case it is important to think, not only about Theresa, but other children who might benefit from transplant.
Justice- each gets what they need and what they deserve
One should consider if it is ethical to deny children transplants that could save their lives, but also consider if Theresa deserves to live as long as possible.
In most situations, a person can make their own decision regarding whether or not they want their organs donated, however in cases such as this where the individual whose organs are being donated cannot decide one must consider if this is a decision that can be made on behalf of another or if only the individual in question can make the decision. In this case one must consider whether, as Theresa herself cannot decide, who has the power to do so and what should they assume.
Maximize benefits- doing the most good and helping the most people
One must consider which outcome benefits they most people for the longest time in the most effective way, while there is almost never an option that satisfies all three, one must consider which one comes closest. In this case it is important to think, not only about Theresa, but other children who might benefit from transplant.
Justice- each gets what they need and what they deserve
One should consider if it is ethical to deny children transplants that could save their lives, but also consider if Theresa deserves to live as long as possible.