What statement best describes respect for autonomy in medicine as presented?

• A. It presumes that a patient is not underinformed and retains decision-making capacity
• B. It requires physicians to override patient preferences
• C. It excludes patient involvement in decisions
• D. It denies patients any information about their condition

Answer: (A)

Respect for autonomy means honoring a patient’s right to make their own medical decisions, based on adequate information and true decision-making ability. The statement that fits best says the patient is presumed not to be underinformed and retains decision-making capacity. In practice, this means clinicians provide necessary information about options, risks, and benefits, confirm understanding, and support the patient’s voluntary choice. If a patient lacks capacity or information, steps should be taken to inform or involve appropriate surrogates or advance directives rather than bypassing the patient’s right to decide. The other ideas—overriding preferences, excluding patient involvement, or denying information—would undermine the patient’s autonomous role in care.