Question

An adult patient has recently been diagnosed with cancer. The patient's family has asked the nurse to withhold this information from the patient because they feel that this information would cause the patient to give up on life and become very depressed. The nurse believes the patient should be told this information. Which ethical principle is being upheld by the nurse?

a) Veracity
b) Nonmaleficence
c) Justice
d) Beneficence

Answer 1

The nurse who believes in informing the patient about their cancer diagnosis is upholding the ethical principle of veracity. This principle is foundational in maintaining trust and respecting the patient's autonomy in healthcare decision-making.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ethical principle being upheld by the nurse who believes that the patient should be told the information about their cancer diagnosis is veracity. Veracity is the obligation to tell the truth and be honest with patients.

It is one principle among several that guide ethical decision-making in healthcare, including the principles of autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. The nurse upholds veracity on the belief that the patient has the right to know their true health condition. While some might argue that withholding information could spare the patient emotional distress (Act Utilitarian view), others would say that maintaining trust and transparency is vital for the patient-doctor relationship (Rule Utilitarian view).

By choosing to tell the patient, the nurse is respecting the patient's autonomy, which is the principle that states patients have the right to make informed decisions regarding their own healthcare. Honesty in conveying the diagnosis respects the patient's ability to direct their care and make choices based on their personal values and wishes.