The Biomedical Engineer's Pledge 1.0

The professional practice of biomedical engineering can lead to severe consequences. These potential consequences do not differ from those expected in the exercise of the medical profession. Hence, the ethical framework of biomedical engineers (BMEs) should not differ substantially from the ethical framework of medical doctors (MDs). In medicine, an element that is perceived as symbolic but essential in the formation of the ethical conscience of MDs is the “Hippocratic Oath”. The “Hippocratic Oath”, or its modern adaptation, the “Physician's Pledge”, is a brief not legally binding solemn declaration of ethical commitments that medical students take as a rite of passage in their final year or just after graduation. In other healthcare professions, such as nursing or pharmacy, sometimes the “Hippocratic Oath” is also taken. However, in its different versions, the “Hippocratic Oath” contains aspects that would not apply to the field of biomedical engineering and, therefore, its adoption without adaptations would be inappropriate. We have drafted a “Biomedical Engineer’s Pledge” aiming at strengthening the ethical awareness of future biomedical engineers. It consists of a preamble sentence, ten promises, and a concluding sentence. Top priority is given to the first promise, which combines the fundamental principles of beneficence and non-maleficence.