One of your employees has just been diagnosed with a treatable form of cancer. He has confided in you about the status of his health. He has also asked you not to say a word to anyone because he considers his health to be a personal matter. Over the next few months, this employee is absent frequently, especially during his radiation treatments. His absences are not a major problem for the company because his duties involve direct computer work which he can do while at home. However, some of your other employees have asked you what's wrong with him. You politely decline to discuss his situation. As a result, the other employees think that their co$-$worker is getting special treatment and are ready to go to your boss to complain. You are confident that if they only knew of the employee's illness, they would understand. But you promised him not to reveal the reason for his absence$.$ At the same time, it would create unnecessary and unhelpful problems for him if other employees complain about him.

What are the ethical issues involved?

Who are the stakeholders involved and what are their likely views?

What are the risks and outcomes of the ethical issue$($s$)?$

What are the options in this case? What decision would you make and why?

Should you reveal to your other employees the reason for their co$-$worker's absence$?$ Why or why not?