American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ANCC Practice Questions and Study Guide

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal concept in healthcare that emphasizes the patient's right to make decisions about their own medical treatments and procedures. When a patient is capable of providing informed consent, it indicates that they understand the nature of the treatment, the risks and benefits, and the alternatives available to them. In this case, supporting the patient who has given informed consent is the ethical choice because it respects their autonomy and decision-making capacity.

By prioritizing the wishes of the patient, the nurse practitioner upholds the ethical principles of beneficence (acting in the patient's best interest) and autonomy (honoring the patient's right to make decisions about their own health care). Even if there are concerns about the patient's state of mind or the influence of family members, the law typically holds that as long as the patient is competent to make decisions, their consent must be respected.

This approach not only enhances the therapeutic relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient but also fosters trust. It reflects a commitment to patient-centered care, where the patient's values and preferences are the focal point of medical decisions.