Which theory or theories are being used by Jessica, Marco,
Maria, and Dr. Wilson to determine the moral status of the fetus? Explain.

How does the theory determine or influence each of their
recommendation for action?

What theory do you agree with? How would that theory
determine or influence the recommendation for action?

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in
the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not
required.

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prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for
successful completion.

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PHI-413V-RS-T2CaseStudy.docx

Case Study: Fetal Abnormality

Jessica is a 30-year-old immigrant from Mexico City. She and
her husband Marco have been in the U.S. for the last three years and have
finally earned enough money to move out of their Aunt Maria’s home and into an
apartment of their own. They are both hard workers. Jessica works 50 hours a
week at a local restaurant and Marco has been contracting side jobs in
construction. Six months before their move to an apartment, Jessica finds out
she is pregnant.

Four months later, Jessica and Marco arrive at the county
hospital, a large, public, nonteaching hospital. A preliminary ultrasound
indicates a possible abnormality with the fetus. Further scans are conducted
and it is determined that the fetus has a rare condition in which it has not
developed any arms, and will not likely develop them. There is also a 25%
chance that the fetus may have Down syndrome.

Dr. Wilson, the primary attending physician, is seeing
Jessica for the first time, since she and Marco did not receive earlier
prenatal care over concerns about finances. Marco insists that Dr. Wilson
refrain from telling Jessica the scan results, assuring him that he will tell
his wife himself when she is emotionally ready for the news. While Marco and
Dr. Wilson are talking in another room, Aunt Maria walks into the room with a
distressed look on her face. She can tell that something is wrong and inquires
of Dr. Wilson. After hearing of the diagnosis, she walks out of the room
wailing loudly and praying aloud.

Marco and Dr. Wilson continue their discussion, and Dr.
Wilson insists that he has an obligation to Jessica as his patient and that she
has a right to know the diagnosis of the fetus. He furthermore is intent on
discussing all relevant factors and options regarding the next step, including
abortion. Marco insists on taking some time to think of how to break the news
to Jessica, but Dr. Wilson, frustrated with the direction of the conversation,
informs the husband that such a choice is not his to make. Dr. Wilson proceeds
back across the hall, where he walks in on Aunt Maria awkwardly praying with
Jessica and phoning the priest. At that point, Dr. Wilson gently but briefly
informs Jessica of the diagnosis, and lays out the option for abortion as a
responsible medical alternative, given the quality of life such a child would
have. Jessica looks at him and struggles to hold back her tears.

Jessica is torn between her hopes of a better socioeconomic
position and increased independence, along with her conviction that all life is
sacred. Marco will support Jessica in whatever decision she makes, but is
finding it difficult not to view the pregnancy and the prospects of a disabled
child as a burden and a barrier to their economic security and plans. Dr.
Wilson lays out all of the options but clearly makes his view known that
abortion is “scientifically” and medically a wise choice in this situation. Aunt
Maria pleads with Jessica to follow through with the pregnancy and allow what
“God intends” to take place, and urges Jessica to think of her responsibility
as a mother.