Final answer:
The principle of autonomy in healthcare allows patients to decide to continue or discontinue treatment, and nurses typically respect this right. They may encourage continuation of treatment out of beneficence, or discuss options with the healthcare team, but should not outright deny a patient's choice to discontinue treatment unless legally required.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the statement, "Discontinuing with the treatment is your choice if it is your wish to do so," it's clear that the principle of autonomy is central to the ethical tension presented. In healthcare ethics, the principle of autonomy affirms that patients have the right to make their own decisions about their medical treatment, which includes the right to discontinue that treatment. This would imply that option A) The nurse will respect the client's autonomy and wishes regarding treatment, aligns with this principle. However, healthcare providers also consider the principle of beneficence, which involves acting in the best interest of the patient. This indicates that while option B) The nurse will encourage the client to follow through with the prescribed treatment may seem conflicting, it is another ethical consideration, as the nurse might believe continuing treatment to be in the patient's best interest.
Option C) The nurse will discuss the client's decision with the healthcare team before taking any action, represents a collaborative approach, ensuring that the client's autonomy is considered alongside professional opinions. On the other hand, option D) The nurse will inform the client that discontinuing treatment is not an option, directly contradicts the principle of autonomy and is typically not considered an ethically appropriate response unless there are extenuating circumstances that legally mandate treatment.