Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

The chosen answer, autonomy, is particularly significant in the context of nursing ethics because it pertains to a patient's right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. Autonomy can sometimes conflict with a nurse's duty to care, especially when a patient refuses treatment that is deemed necessary for their well-being or safety. In such cases, the nurse faces a moral dilemma: should they respect the patient's wishes and uphold their right to make decisions about their own health, or should they advocate for interventions that align with the principles of beneficence (acting in the patient's best interest) or nonmaleficence (not causing harm)?

This conflict is further compounded when the patient's decision may lead to adverse outcomes, putting them at risk. The nurse must navigate these ethical tensions carefully, balancing respect for the patient's autonomy with their commitment to providing safe and beneficial care. Understanding this principle is crucial for nurses, as it directly influences patient relationships and care planning.

Justice relates to fairness and equity in healthcare distribution, which does not directly conflict with a nurse's immediate duty to care for a specific patient. Beneficence focuses on doing good for the patient, which usually aligns with a nurse's responsibilities. Nonmaleficence emphasizes the duty to do no harm, which generally