What is the principle of autonomy in nursing?

The principle of autonomy in nursing emphasizes the importance of respecting a patient's right to make their own healthcare decisions. This principle is founded on the belief that individuals have the capacity to understand their health conditions and make informed choices regarding their treatment options. In practice, this means that nurses and healthcare providers should support patients in expressing their preferences, values, and beliefs when it comes to their care, while also ensuring that they have the necessary information to make informed decisions.

Encouraging patients to actively participate in their own care fosters a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship and ultimately leads to better health outcomes. This principle is a fundamental aspect of nursing ethics and aligns with the respect for human dignity, recognizing that each patient is unique, with their own perspectives and rights.

In contrast, the other options do not reflect the essence of autonomy. Following medical protocols without exception disregards individual patient preferences. Providing treatment regardless of patient consent undermines the right to make personal healthcare decisions. Finally, making decisions for a patient based solely on their age does not consider the individual’s unique situation, beliefs, and preferences, thus, failing to honor their autonomy.