Bioethical management of patients with epilepsy: sex and age-related aspects

Abstract

Aim. The study aimed to motivate doctors for ethical management of patients with epilepsy, to study the real picture of the application of values and principles of bioethics during the treatment of patients with epilepsy, and to develop an algorithm of ethical management of patients taking into account sex and age-related factors.

Materials and Methods. Content analysis of historical documents and publications in Russian neurological journals was performed. The sociological study included observation, a questionnaire survey of post-graduate students and junior and senior students of medical institutions, standardized and non-standardized interviewing of 211 neurologists, and 265 pediatric neurologists.

Results. In their clinical practice, 60% of the interviewed in 2017-2019 followed the principles of respect for the private autonomy of patients and their human dignity. 55% of responders followed partner and negotiation models of interaction with patients. More than 97% of respondents from these groups try to follow the principles of bioethics. However, more than 50% of them could not name classic and special principles of bioethics for their category of patients; 29% could not identify the type of model that they use in their work with patients; 75% of pediatric neurologists significantly lacked knowledge in the area of bioethics and practical skills in their application in patients’ management.

Conclusion. The study revealed controversy between the increased motivation of doctors to ethical management and an insignificant level of knowledge in the area of bioethics and its practical implementation. To reduce this controversy, it is necessary to develop a system of continuous ethical education.