What is the primary function of Clinical Ethicists reviewing cases in hospital ethics committees?

Clarifying the ethical dimensions of the situation.

Clinical ethicists serve a crucial consultative role within hospital ethics committees. Their primary responsibility is not to usurp the authority of the treating team or the patient by making the definitive medical determination. Instead, their expertise is employed to thoroughly illuminate the ethical considerations inherent in a difficult situation. This clarification process ensures that the resulting decisions made by the responsible parties are robust, well-considered, and properly aligned with established ethical principles and the governing guidelines set forth by the institution. They act as ethical navigators, ensuring due process and moral consistency are maintained during challenging reviews involving consent or disputes.