Which principle ensures that patients are treated with dignity and respect in palliative care?

The principle of autonomy is fundamental in ensuring that patients are treated with dignity and respect in palliative care. Autonomy recognizes the right of individuals to make informed decisions about their own healthcare based on their values and preferences. In the context of palliative care, this means that patients have the authority to express their wishes regarding treatment options, end-of-life care, and other aspects of their healthcare journey.

When healthcare providers uphold the principle of autonomy, they foster an environment where patients feel empowered and respected. This respect for their personal choices is vital in palliative care, as it often involves navigating complex emotional and ethical issues surrounding life-threatening illnesses and end-of-life decisions. By prioritizing autonomy, healthcare professionals can ensure that patients are not only informed but also that their dignity is preserved throughout their care experience.

The other principles, while important, focus more on balancing benefits and harms (beneficence and non-maleficence) or promoting fairness (justice) but do not directly encapsulate the core value of respecting patients' rights as individuals, which is central to providing dignified care in palliative contexts.