A nurse manager is reviewing clients' rights with the nurses on the unit. The nurse manager should tell the nurses that informed consent promotes which of the following ethical principles?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Autonomy is the ethical principle that respects the right of clients to make their own decisions and choices regarding their health care. Informed consent is a process that ensures that clients are fully informed of the benefits, risks, alternatives, and consequences of a proposed treatment or procedure, and that they voluntarily agree to it. B. Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle that obliges health care providers to do no harm to clients, either intentionally or unintentionally. Informed consent does not directly promote this principle, although it may help to prevent harm by disclosing potential risks and complications. C. Justice is the ethical principle that requires fair and equal treatment of all clients, regardless of their personal characteristics, preferences, or values. Informed consent does not directly promote this principle, although it may help to ensure that clients are not coerced or manipulated into accepting a treatment or procedure that they do not want or need. D. Fidelity is the ethical principle that requires health care providers to be faithful and loyal to their clients, and to honor their commitments and promises. Informed consent does not directly promote this principle, although it may help to establish trust and rapport between clients and providers.