Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 69%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder and is refusing to take prescribed medications. Which of the following ethical principles is the nurse displaying when he supports the client's refusal of medications?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Autonomy. Autonomy refers to the principle of respecting an individual's right to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare. By supporting the client's refusal of medications, the nurse is upholding the client's autonomy and right to make choices about their own treatment. Veracity (A) relates to truthfulness, not applicable here. Beneficence (C) involves acting in the best interest of the client, which may conflict with autonomy in this case. Justice (D) pertains to fairness and equal treatment, not relevant to the client's refusal of medications.