Principles of Ethics: Autonomy

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to the principles of biomedical ethics, particularly focusing on autonomy and its implications in health care.

Autonomy

The principle that involves self-governance or self-determination, allowing individuals to make decisions about their own lives.

Beneficence

The ethical principle that requires actions to promote the well-being of others.

Non-maleficence

The principle of doing no harm; the obligation to avoid causing harm to patients.

Justice

The ethical principle that focuses on fairness and equality in the distribution of resources and treatment.

Four Principles of Ethics

Framework consisting of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice that guides ethical decision-making.

Paternalism

The practice of overriding a person's preferences or actions based on the belief that it is for their own good.

Veracity

The ethical obligation to tell the truth; important for informed consent in health care.

Privacy

The right of individuals to control access to their personal information and body.

Confidentiality

The principle that healthcare professionals must keep patient information confidential and not disclose it without consent.

Consent

The voluntary agreement of a patient to undergo a treatment or procedure, after being informed of the risks and benefits.

Informed Consent

The process of obtaining permission from a patient after providing necessary information for them to understand the treatment.

Competence

The ability of an individual to understand and make decisions regarding their health care.

Moral autonomy

The capacity to govern oneself according to one's own moral principles.

Prima facie

A Latin term meaning 'at first sight'; generally accepted unless proven otherwise.

Therapeutic privilege

The justification for withholding information from a patient if revealing it could cause them harm.

Cultural influences on confidentiality

Variations in the importance and expectations of confidentiality based on cultural backgrounds.

Limits to autonomy

Conditions under which an individual's autonomy may be restricted for reasons such as public health or safety.