AIDS HIV prevention scenario

.docx

School

Los Angeles Mission College *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

434

Subject

Philosophy

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by ChefTree8628

1 Week 7 Scenario and Reflection Essay This week's scenario addresses the implementation of appropriate measures that ought to be taken to minimize the rapid transmission of HIV and AIDS within Africa. According to Dr. Meadows, it is essential to increase the distribution of condoms in underdeveloped regions of Africa, where the prevalence of AIDS is alarmingly high (Tosh, n.d.-a). She states that although education regarding the matter holds significance, it is insufficient by itself to address the problem effectively. Moreover, she asserts that the implementation of mandatory HIV testing is not a viable approach since it might potentially lead to terrible consequences for those whose test results are publicized (Tosh, n.d.-a). She believes that this might subject individuals living with HIV to various forms of discrimination and risks associated with their occupations and sexual orientations. Per Dr. Meadows, the enforcement of a mandated HIV-testing approach violates the fundamental principles of privacy, confidentiality, and informed consent, infringing upon basic human rights (Tosh, n.d.-a). Meadows claims that the process of testing should be conducted; however, it is necessary that it is carried out on a voluntary basis, ensuring accessibility and availability (Tosh, n.d.-a). Additionally, it is important to provide individuals with an assurance that their personal data will not be disclosed without their explicit consent. On the contrary, Dr. Williams contends that although obligatory testing may be considered intrusive, its implementation is necessary to curb the transmission of HIV and AIDS effectively. She argues that mandatory testing would yield significant advantages for both individuals and society. Evidence demonstrates that early identification and intervention in cases of HIV have been effective in mitigating the spread of the virus and enhancing the overall survival rates of those living with HIV (Tosh, n.d.-a). Dr. Williams states that certain organizations engaged in the distribution of supplies in Africa show a reluctance to distribute condoms due to convictions

2 related to religion, thus making condom distribution an ineffective strategy. People who abstain from undergoing tests will remain in a state of unawareness regarding their health status, therefore continuing the transmission of the infection among the community (Tosh, n.d.-a). The enforcement of mandatory testing must take place to successfully encourage individuals who are infected to make use of condoms (Tosh, n.d.-a). Before engaging with this week's scenario, I hadn't really given significant thought to my views on HIV or AIDS prevention, so I had no established position on the matter. However, I am very curious about the topic and am hoping to be more knowledgeable about it. As a nursing student, I think it is essential to gain awareness of topics like this so that I can properly inform my patients, promote safer behaviors without causing offense, and contribute to reducing stigma and discrimination toward individuals affected by and living with HIV. Upon careful consideration, I would have to say that option B is the most ethical. Option B expresses support for Dr. Meadows's viewpoint. It acknowledges that we must address this issue by handling the supply chain issue and distributing more contraceptives, specifically condoms, to more people. It states that people's deep-seated traditions that keep them from recognizing that condom distribution is ethical are highly stubborn to change (Tosh, n.d.-a). Option B implies that HIV education, the availability of condoms, and independent testing should drive this effort. We should always consider testing programs that can be implemented with the least amount of damage to individual privacy, such as identifying patients with codes rather than their names as a means to keep their personal medical data secure and confidential (Tosh, n.d.-a). I believe this approach closely relates to the consequentialist theory of Utilitarianism. Utilitarianism asserts that individuals should engage in behaviors that maximize the collective well-being for the greatest number of individuals (Tosh, n.d.-b). Option B

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help