Hot dogs Quote by Gregory Berns
““Unable to resist the scent of hot dogs, she padded up to the top of the steps, but once there, she balked at climbing onto the patient table. Of course, I could have picked her up and put her there, but it was important to remain faithful to our ethical principle of self-determination. Callie had to do it of her own free will. The MR techs started laughing. How could we do an MRI if the subject wouldn’t even get on the table?””
About This Quote
Source Case Study: Medical Ethics, 2020s
A researcher describes a scenario where a patient refuses to climb onto an MRI table, emphasizing self‑determination despite practical challenges.
In simple terms: Patient autonomy versus procedural practicality.
Respect patient choice even when inconvenient.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- hospital settings
- research protocols
- patient care discussions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can staff honor autonomy while ensuring safety?
- What alternatives exist when patients refuse procedures?
Balancing safety and respect can be complex.