Which of the following ethical principles is concerned with the fairness or equity required in dealing with patients?

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

The principle of Justice in healthcare ethics refers directly to fairness, equity, and the appropriate distribution of resources.
It requires that patients in similar circumstances receive similar care.
This principle is foundational to discussions about access to care, allocation of scarce resources (like organs or ICU beds), and eliminating discrimination in healthcare.

Option A: Fidelity is about faithfulness and keeping promises. It means being loyal to the patient and fulfilling professional commitments.
Option C: Autonomy is the principle of respecting a patient's right to self-determination and to make their own informed decisions about their care.
Option D: Veracity is the principle of being truthful and honest with patients. It obligates healthcare professionals not to deceive patients.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Ethical Principles in Nursing: Justice as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In practice, nurses apply the principle of justice daily when prioritizing care among multiple patients, ensuring each receives equitable attention based on their needs.
Justice is a key consideration in public health nursing, guiding efforts to reduce health disparities and advocate for vulnerable populations.
During mass casualty incidents or pandemics, justice guides triage decisions, ensuring resources are used to do the greatest good for the greatest number of people in a fair manner.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question stem: 'fairness' and 'equity'.
Recognize that these are core concepts in healthcare ethics.
Systematically review the definitions of the four ethical principles provided in the options.
Match the keywords 'fairness' and 'equity' to the principle of 'Justice', which is defined as the fair distribution of benefits, risks, and costs.
Eliminate the other options by recalling their distinct meanings: Fidelity (promise-keeping), Autonomy (self-determination), and Veracity (truthfulness).

Concept Tested & Keywords

QWIW79TzgB4_v34p8FrOkM

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 2 p. 81-83

E6 Nursing Education & Educational TechnologySuresh k Sharma (pp 21-557 of 572) p. 486-488

Practise the full DSSSB 12 August 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.