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Autonomy
respect the patient’s right to self-determination.
Beneficence
act for the patient’s good and promote well-being.
Non-malifecence
avoid causing harm: “do no harm.”
Justice
provide fair and equitable care and resource distribution
Fidelity
— keep commitments, promises, and professional responsibilities.
Veracity
communicate honestly and document truthfully.
Privacy
concerns the person: body dignity, personal space, and control over personal interactions.
Confidentiality
•concerns patient information: health records, conversations, images, and other protected data.
Informed Consent
voluntary agreement after understandable information about the proposed care.
Right to refuse care
a competent adult may decline treatment, even when refusal carries serious risk.
Dignity and Respect
•care should be respectful and free from discrimination.
Access to records
•patients may have rights to inspect or obtain records according to applicable law and policy.
Advocacy
help the patient understand options, express preferences, and receive appropriate care.
Capacity
•is decision-specific; do not equate an unpopular decision with lack of capacity.