Which principle of medical ethics requires that a patient must provide consent before any procedure?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Autonomy

Rationale:

Autonomy is a fundamental principle of medical ethics that upholds the right of patients to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. This means that patients must provide voluntary consent before any medical procedure or treatment is carried out.
Respecting patient autonomy involves ensuring that patients are fully informed about their medical condition, the proposed interventions, potential risks and benefits, and any alternative options available. This allows patients to make decisions that align with their values and preferences.
Informed consent is a key aspect of autonomy. It requires that patients have the capacity to understand the information provided and are free from coercion or undue influence when making healthcare decisions.

Explanation of Other Options:

Non-maleficence

Rationale: Non-maleficence is the ethical principle that obligates healthcare providers to avoid causing harm to patients. While it is a critical aspect of medical ethics, it does not specifically address the requirement for patient consent before procedures.

Beneficence

Rationale: Beneficence involves acting in the best interest of the patient by promoting their well-being and providing beneficial treatments. This principle focuses on the positive duty to help patients, rather than the necessity of obtaining their consent.

Justice

Rationale: Justice in medical ethics pertains to fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources and the equitable treatment of all patients. It does not directly relate to the need for patient consent before medical procedures.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, autonomy is the principle that requires a patient to provide consent before any medical procedure. Ensuring patient autonomy is essential for respecting their rights and dignity in the healthcare setting.