Ethics & Law · single question
When you present a patient with several different treatment options and let them choose, which ethical principle are you primarily upholding?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Autonomy
- A. Correct. Autonomy is the patient's right to self-determination. Offering options and respecting the patient's informed choice directly supports autonomy.
- B. Nonmaleficence is 'do no harm,' which is not the principle highlighted by presenting choices.
- C. Justice concerns fairness in the distribution of care/resources, not individual choice among treatment options.
- D. Beneficence is acting in the patient's best interest (doing good) — related, but the act of offering choices specifically honors self-determination.