When faced with an ethical dilemma, what steps should be taken according to standard professional practice?

• A. Identify facts and stakeholders, consult the code of ethics, assess risks, seek guidance from a supervisor or ethics committee, consider alternatives, and document the decision.
• B. Make a quick personal judgment and proceed.
• C. Wait for someone else to decide.
• D. Only discuss with peers informally.

Answer: (A)

When a professional faces an ethical dilemma, the best approach is a deliberate, structured process that ties action to established standards and protects everyone involved. Start by identifying the facts and who is affected, so you truly understand the situation and what information matters. Next, consult the code of ethics to anchor your decision in formal rules and shared values. Then assess the risks and potential harms for all stakeholders, weighing options against principles like integrity, fairness, and responsibility. Seek guidance from a supervisor or an ethics committee to gain perspective and ensure accountability. Consider viable alternatives that could reduce harm while upholding your professional duties. Finally, document the reasoning and the final decision so there is a clear record for accountability and future reference. This approach keeps decision-making transparent, consistent, and defensible, rather than relying on a quick personal judgment, waiting for someone else to decide, or discussing only informally, which can overlook key standards and fail to address all affected parties.