“Scarcity,” “Futility,” and “Moral Distress”: A Case Analysis of the Challenges of Sound Ethical Description

Abstract

Appropriate use of ethical terminology is critical to effective, goal-concordant care, particularly for patients who are critically ill or nearing the end of life. In this case analysis, we describe how the ethical terms “scarcity,” “futility,” and “moral distress” were used in ways that failed to accurately capture the clinical situation, and likely favored the viewpoints of the clinical team. While careful attention to accurate clinical and ethical terminology is challenging in cases like this, we argue it is essential to communicate honestly and effectively with patients and families grappling with difficult decisions in these contexts.