Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice ›› 2026, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (6): 739-744.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-9771.2026.06.012

Previous Articles    

Ethical dilemmas and decision-making in doctor-patient relationship and social support: from the perspective of amputation

WU Shicai1,2(), MIN Hongwei1,2, MENG Lijun1,2   

  1. 1 Beijing Bo'ai Hospital, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing 100068, China
    2 Capital Medical University School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Beijing 100068, China
  • Received:2025-12-29 Revised:2026-03-25 Published:2026-06-25 Online:2026-06-24

Abstract:

Objective To explore ethical dilemmas in amputation treatment, focusing on patient autonomy, informed consent and decision-making interaction between family members and medical teams, to provide references for clinical ethical decision-making and rehabilitation practice.
Methods The decision-making process of amputation was analyzed from three dimensions, including patient autonomy, informed consent and shared decision-making of families and medical teams, in light of ethical principles such as non-maleficence, beneficence and justice.
Results Ethical decision-making in amputation was based on adequate informed consent of patients and their families. Medical teams made decisions on the premise of respecting patients' true will. Postoperative psychological support and social security system played a vital role in patients' rehabilitation, and national policy support was indispensable.
Conclusion Ethical decision-making for amputation should balance the responsibilities of medical teams and family participation on the basis of respecting patient autonomy and ensuring informed consent. Sound postoperative psychological support and social security system are essential for patients' comprehensive rehabilitation, which should be fully considered in clinical ethical practice.

Key words: ethical dilemmas, doctor-patient relationship, social support, amputation

CLC Number: