Which principle is described as respecting a patient’s rational capacity for self-determination through disclosure?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Paternalism
• C. Justice
• D. Beneficence

Answer: (A)

Autonomy is the principle at play here. It centers on treating patients as capable of making their own decisions, which relies on honoring their rational capacity for self-determination. Providing full disclosure—sharing diagnosis, options, risks, benefits, and alternatives—gives the patient the information they need to decide in line with their values. When information is disclosed clearly, the patient can exercise informed choice about their care, rather than having decisions made for them.

Paternalism contrasts with this by describing situations where the clinician overrides or guides the patient’s choice for what they believe is the patient’s best interest, potentially diminishing self-determination. Beneficence focuses on doing good for the patient, and justice concerns fair treatment and distribution of resources. But the act described—respecting a patient’s decision-making capacity through disclosure—best fits autonomy.