What it means
One of the principles of nursing ethics, along with autonomyaw-TON-uh-meeA person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.Full entry , beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice and fidelity. It means being honest with clients, families and coworkers, and not deceiving them, even when the truth is hard to hear. Clients need truthful information to make their own decisions.
For the nurse
Answer clients' questions honestly within your scope, and refer questions about diagnosis or prognosis to the provider when needed. Admit and report your own errors.
Related terms
informed consent
A person's agreement to a treatment or procedure, given freely after the risks, benefits and other choices have been explained to them.
advocate
To speak up and act for a client's rights, safety and wishes; also, a person who does this.
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.