A client with depression tells the nurse, “I want to stop taking my antidepressant medication because I don’t like taking medications.” The nurse discusses the benefits of adhering to the medication plan and strongly urges the client to use the medication. The nurse interprets the client’s statement as reflecting which ethical principle?
Answer: Autonomy
Explanation: Autonomy reflects the fundamental right of all persons for self-determination, to make independently make choices. Autonomy is reflected by the client's statement to stop taking the medication. The nurse's urging the client to continue to use the medication because of the medication's benefits reflects the principle of beneficence, that is, the nurse is using scientific knowledge and incorporating that knowledge to promote the client's maximum health potential. In this case, the medication would help to control the client's depressive symptoms. Justice reflects the duty to treat all fairly; paternalism is the belief that knowledge and education authorize professionals to make decisions for the good of the client.
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