Which ethical principle emphasizes patient independence and decision-making authority?

Which ethical principle emphasizes patient independence and decision-making authority?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Beneficence
• C. Justice
• D. Nonmaleficence

Answer: (A)

Autonomy is the principle that recognizes a patient’s right to make their own health care decisions. It means valuing independence and the authority to choose, provided the patient has capacity and receives adequate information. In practice, this shows up through informed consent, clear disclosure of options, supporting the patient’s choices, and respecting refusals even if they differ from what a clinician would prefer. Beneficence is about acting in the patient’s best interest, nonmaleficence is about avoiding harm, and justice concerns fair access to care and resources.

Autonomy is the principle that recognizes a patient’s right to make their own health care decisions. It means valuing independence and the authority to choose, provided the patient has capacity and receives adequate information. In practice, this shows up through informed consent, clear disclosure of options, supporting the patient’s choices, and respecting refusals even if they differ from what a clinician would prefer. Beneficence is about acting in the patient’s best interest, nonmaleficence is about avoiding harm, and justice concerns fair access to care and resources.