Create a scoring system of 1 to 5, with 5 being the greatest utility and 1 being the least. Work out the utility for the following problem. Should I take a gratuity from a patient ($50 in an envelope) even though I know that the hospital forbids the practice of taking gratuities? Show criteria you are evaluating and provide the score for the yes and no decisions

Answer 1

Utility is the search for the answer that provides the greatest net increase of pleasure over pain. The potential choices need to be formulated as well as potential consequences.
Yes, I should take the money.
a . No one finds out—moderate utility in the money, but the practitioner loses some pleasure in worrying about the potential for disclosure.
b. No one finds out, but the patient now thinks you owe better service—moderate utility in the money, but the practitioner loses some pleasure in the change of status afforded by the patient.
c. Someone finds out—no utility in the money and potential dire consequences of losing one's position. At the minimum the practitioner would face social approbation from colleagues.
No, I should not take the money.
a . Moderate loss of utility due to not being able to use the money. However, the potential for dire consequences is avoided and the patient-provider relationship is maintained.