What are the four ethical principles in healthcare?

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The four ethical principles in healthcare are autonomy, nonmaleficence, beneficence, and justice.

Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. It emphasizes the importance of respecting patients' choices and their ability to govern their own lives.

Nonmaleficence is the principle that obligates healthcare providers to refrain from causing harm to patients. It highlights the necessity of avoiding actions or treatments that may inadvertently harm someone, emphasizing the ethical duty to prevent harm.

Beneficence is the obligation of healthcare professionals to act in the best interest of the patient, promoting their well-being and ensuring the best possible outcomes through effective treatments and care.

Justice pertains to the fair distribution of healthcare resources and treatment, ensuring that individuals have equitable access to care and that benefits and burdens are shared fairly among all members of society.

Together, these principles guide ethical decision-making in healthcare, balancing the rights and needs of patients with obligations and the welfare of the community. The incorrect options do not represent the recognized principles as defined in healthcare ethics due to the inclusion of terms like consent, liability, or negligence, which are not among the four core ethical principles.

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