Which ethical principle in nursing practice emphasizes a patient's right to make decisions about their healthcare?

The ethical principle that emphasizes a patient's right to make decisions about their healthcare is autonomy. Autonomy in nursing practice recognizes the importance of allowing patients to have control over their own health decisions and treatment options. This principle supports the idea that patients should be fully informed about their conditions, the potential benefits and risks of various treatments, and should be empowered to make choices that align with their values and preferences.

By honoring autonomy, nurses ensure that patients are active participants in their own care, which can lead to improved patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment plans, and overall health outcomes. This principle is foundational in establishing a respectful and trusting relationship between nurses and patients, as it acknowledges the individual's right to self-determination in their healthcare journey.

In contrast, beneficence relates to acting in the best interest of the patient, justice involves fairness and equity in care distribution, and fidelity concerns the nurse's obligation to remain loyal and keep promises made to patients. While these principles are also vital in nursing ethics, they do not focus specifically on the patient's right to make healthcare decisions, which is the essence of autonomy.