Which ethical principle emphasizes the autonomy and rights of individuals to make their own choices in treatment?

The principle that emphasizes the autonomy and rights of individuals to make their own choices in treatment is respect for persons. This ethical principle underlines the importance of recognizing the dignity and worth of each individual, allowing them to make informed decisions about their own health and treatment. Respecting autonomy involves ensuring that patients are provided with all the necessary information to understand their options and encouraging them to participate actively in decisions related to their care. This principle is crucial in nursing and healthcare to promote informed consent and empower individuals in their treatment journeys.

In contrast, beneficence relates to the obligation to act in the best interest of the patient, justice involves fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources, and non-maleficence signifies the duty to do no harm. While these principles are also important in healthcare ethics, they do not specifically focus on the individual's right to make autonomous choices.