What Are the Basic Ethical Principles?
RESPECT FOR AUTONOMY recognizes the right and ability of an individual to decide for himself or herself based on his or her own values, beliefs and life span. This implies that the patient may choose a treatment that might differ from the advised course of care. The patient’s decision should be informed and well-considered, reflecting his/her values. It is acceptable, for example, that a patient refuse certain therapy according to his own religious beliefs. Many factors interfere with the expression and appreciation of the patient’s preferences: compromised competence of the patient, stress of illness, comprehension difficulty, etc. Respect for autonomy implies truth telling and exchange of accurate information about status, goals of care, options and expectations. BENEFICENCE requires that the physician prevent or remove harm, while doing or promoting good. It is the most commonly used principle in the application of care. It implies that the health care team should do positive acts i
