Which ethical principle supports a patient’s right to make their own health care decisions?

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

Answer: (A)

Respect for patient autonomy means recognizing the patient’s right to make decisions about their own health care. When a patient is competent and well informed, their choices about tests, treatments, or end-of-life options should guide care, even if clinicians believe another path would be better. This rests on informed consent—clear information, voluntary decision-making, and understanding of the consequences. By honoring autonomy, we acknowledge each person’s values and preferences and support self-determination in health matters. Beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice guide care as well, but they don’t by themselves grant the final say to the clinician; autonomy ensures that the patient’s own choice governs the course of treatment.