What term describes an individual's right to choose their own treatment options and maintain control over their health?

The term that describes an individual's right to choose their own treatment options and maintain control over their health is autonomy. This principle emphasizes the importance of respecting an individual’s personal decision-making capabilities, allowing them to make informed choices regarding their medical care and lifestyle. Autonomy is grounded in the belief that patients should have the freedom to make their own health care decisions based on their values, preferences, and beliefs.

In healthcare, recognizing a patient's autonomy involves providing them with comprehensive information about their conditions and treatment options, as well as supporting their right to make choices without coercion. This allows patients to engage actively in their health care journey, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for their health.

The other terms relate to different ethical principles in health care. Beneficence refers to the obligation to act in the best interest of the patient, promoting well-being and positive outcomes. Moral distress occurs when healthcare professionals know the right action to take but feel unable to do so due to constraints, leading to feelings of frustration or guilt. Nonmaleficence is the principle of "do no harm," emphasizing the need to avoid causing harm in any form during patient care. Each of these principles plays a vital role in patient advocacy and care, but none encapsulate the fundamental