Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Ethical Mapping among Medical Students in Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Medical ethics is an essential aspect of healthcare that plays a major role in guiding the behaviour of
healthcare professionals and ensuring patient health. Medical ethics originated with the Hippocratic Oath, a lengthy
document that demonstrates the importance of moral considerations in medical practice. Objectives: This study aimed to
determine level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices on ethical mapping among medical students. Methodology: A
cross sectional methodology was used in this study to survey both male and female medical students. A validated Likert
scale survey was employed to gather quantitative data on students' views on moral dilemmas, healthcare, and
fundamental norms. Data were analysed using statistical software (Stata MP17, Serial No.:501706389923). Descriptive
statistics was used to summarize participant characteristics and responses to knowledge, attitude, and practice questions.
Inferential statistics, including chi square tests and one-way ANOVA, were used to investigate possible correlations.
Results: Males made up 45.13% and 54.87% were females. The mean age of the participants was 20.20 ± 1.581 years,
with a range of 17 to 24 years. The findings demonstrated increased awareness and attitudes toward ethical issues,
enabling more sensible decision making. However, the findings showed that while managing patients and making critical
decisions, healthcare professionals require more than just ethical awareness. Conclusions: The study highlights the need
to put ethics into practice and emphasizes how crucial it is for institutions to prioritize practical ethical training over
academic knowledge.