Final answer:
The patient's family is exercising the right to informed consent, which aligns with the principle of autonomy and self-determination in healthcare decisions. This right must be balanced with the patient's privacy and confidentiality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The patient's family is exercising the patient's right to informed consent. Informed consent in healthcare means that the patient, or their designated representatives if the patient cannot make decisions on their own, should be provided with all relevant information regarding treatment plans, potential risks, and alternative options to make an educated decision on the healthcare being provided. The principle of autonomy supports this right, as patients have the right to exercise self-determination regarding their own healthcare. However, it is also imperative to balance this with the patient's right to privacy and confidentiality, ensuring that only those who are authorized by the patient have access to this information.