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Table 2 Surgeons’ moral reasoning described by main theme, themes and sub-themes

From: Exploring what is reasonable: uncovering moral reasoning of vascular surgeons in daily practice

Main theme

Exploring reasonableness questing for relieving suffer and avoiding harm

Theme

To shift one´s perspective from vessels to the whole person

To balance patient’s conflicting needs

To place responsibility for right decision on one´s shoulders

Sub-theme

Gaining holistic knowledge in the pondering of what is best

Weighing independence and sense of being whole against ease of suffering

Reminding oneself of the risk of complications

Struggling with authority through dialogue

Respecting patient’s will versus protecting life and well-being

Withholding one’s power of proficiency in decision-making

Building a relationship for mutual security

Weighing longer life against protecting present well-being

Managing time during the illness course