Ethics Case Study – Jerry McCall
University of Phoenix

Ethics Case Study In health care today, there is sometimes a lax attitude regarding rules and regulations. Some allied health professionals may be tempted to inappropriately use their position because of a personal feeling of empowerment. There are always ethical and legal issues that influence outcomes and this care is just another example of the difficulties that allied health professionals face every day. Jerry is trained as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and currently working as a medical assistant. Jerry’s training allows him to provide general assessments, administer medications, and provide treatments. As an LPN, he is able to administer oral medications, as well as some injectable medications. Also, as a medical assistant, Jerry is also responsible for varying levels of clerical work, which may include the writing of scripts. This is more of a common practice today because of electronic prescription software. However, all prescriptions must be originated by a licensed physician and must undersigned by this same provider. Even though this patient is a personal friend of Dr. Williams, the same prescription standard needs to apply. Jerry would need to contact the physician to obtain a verbal order, which he needs to document appropriately before he can give the patient the script. Whether the fact that the medication is for fear of flying or if it is a critically needed medication like anti-hypertensive’s, the same policy must apply. The patient of Dr. Williams stated that he needs this prescription to fly. In this case, valium was prescribed due to the patient’s acute fear of flying. Should Jerry choose to call in a refill for Jerry, the potential legal ramifications could extend beyond him to his employers, his peers and the patient. Not only is Jerry risking his license, he is putting