What is a key component of ethical patient care?

Ensuring informed consent for all procedures is a fundamental aspect of ethical patient care. This process involves providing patients with comprehensive information about their diagnosis, treatment options, potential risks, and benefits, thus allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare. Informed consent respects patients' autonomy and right to make choices about their bodies and health, reflecting a commitment to ethical principles such as respect for persons and beneficence.

The focus on informed consent enhances the trust between healthcare providers and patients, making patients more likely to engage in their treatment plans. This element not only benefits the patient by involving them in their care but also aligns with legal and ethical standards in healthcare practice, ensuring that patients are active participants in decisions about their treatment.