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A nurse is caring for a client with cancer who has decided to stop treatment and requests a referral to hospice. The nurse is illustrating which type of ethical principle?

a) Autonomy
b) Beneficence
c) Justice
d) Non-maleficence

User Apomene
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2 Answers

5 votes

Final answer:

The nurse is illustrating the autonomy ethical principle by respecting the client's decision to stop treatment and request a referral to hospice.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse in this scenario is illustrating the autonomy ethical principle. Autonomy is the principle that states that patients have a right to make decisions about their own healthcare. By respecting the client's decision to stop treatment and request a referral to hospice, the nurse is supporting the client's autonomy and self-determination.

User Lmsurprenant
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2 votes

Final Answer:

The nurse's support for the client's decision to stop treatment and seek hospice care illustrates the ethical principle of autonomy, respecting the individual's right to make decisions about their own healthcare. Emphasizing self-determination and informed decision-making, a) autonomy plays a pivotal role in honoring the client's preferences and values at this critical juncture in their healthcare journey.

Step-by-step explanation:

The decision of the client to stop cancer treatment and request a referral to hospice reflects the ethical principle of autonomy. Autonomy emphasizes an individual's right to make decisions about their own life and healthcare.

In this scenario, the nurse respects the client's autonomy by supporting their choice to discontinue treatment and seek hospice care, recognizing the client's right to control their own medical decisions. Autonomy is a fundamental ethical principle that upholds the value of self-determination and informed decision-making in healthcare.

In the context of ethical principles in healthcare, beneficence (option b) involves promoting the well-being and best interests of the patient. Justice (option c) pertains to fairness and equitable distribution of healthcare resources. Non-maleficence (option d) emphasizes the obligation to "do no harm" and prevent harm to the patient.

In summary, the nurse's support for the client's decision aligns with the principle of autonomy, emphasizing the importance of respecting and preserving the individual's right to make choices regarding their medical care, particularly in the context of end-of-life decisions.

Correct option is a) Autonomy.

User Von Spotz
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