Which ethical principles govern confidentiality in clinical practice?

• A. Autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice
• B. Autonomy, confidentiality, privacy, consent
• C. Beneficence, nonmaleficence, efficiency, justice
• D. Veracity, Fidelity, Justice, Autonomy

Answer: (A)

Confidentiality in clinical practice is guided by four widely recognized bioethical principles. Respect for autonomy means patients control their own information, so keeping their data confidential honors their right to decide who may know it. Beneficence and nonmaleficence push clinicians to act in the patient’s best interest and to avoid causing harm, which includes preventing disclosures that could harm the patient or erode trust. Justice requires treating all patients with fairness, ensuring confidentiality is applied consistently and without discrimination. While privacy and consent are important components of how confidentiality is practiced, the fundamental ethical framework is defined by autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice.