An 80 year old patient, told that he "probably has" prostate cancer and given two options of treatment, asks the physician "what would you do?" The nurse realizes that this situation indicates which of the following ethical principles?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Paternalism is the principle that allows others to make decisions for another without collaboration in the decision-making process. The patient asking "what would you do?" clearly identifies that the patient is not ready to make a decision about treatment and is asking someone else to intervene. Justice is the principle of people being treated fairly and equally. Fidelity is keeping one's promises or commitments. Autonomy is personal freedom and self-determination and the right to choose what will happen in one's own life.

An 80 Year Old Patient, Told That He "Probably Has