In nursing ethics, what does autonomy refer to?

• A. Beneficence
• B. The patient's right to make their own decisions
• C. Justice
• D. Nonmaleficence

Answer: (B)

Autonomy centers on the patient’s right to self-determination and control over their own health care. It means decisions about treatment are made by the patient (or their legally authorized representative) based on informed, voluntary choices that reflect their values, preferences, and goals. Nurses support autonomy by providing clear information about options, benefits, risks, and potential outcomes, assessing the patient’s decision-making capacity, and ensuring choices are free from coercion or pressure. If a patient consents or refuses a treatment, that choice is respected, even if the nurse or the clinician believes another course would be better.

If a patient lacks decision-making capacity, autonomy is honored by involving surrogates or advance directives to reflect the patient’s values, while still aiming to honor what the patient would have chosen. This principle is distinct from beneficence, which emphasizes acting for the patient’s good; nonmaleficence, which focuses on not causing harm; and justice, which concerns fairness and equity in care.