The principle of autonomy in nursing involves taking into consideration the opinions of the patient on his form of treatment. Though the patient may not always be right, nurses must take into consideration the wishes of the patient. For example, if a patient does not want anesthetic during a procedure, the nurses should give the patient information as to why he would need the anesthetic, but they cannot go against the patient's wishes.
The principle of beneficence questions the beneficiary of the nurse's actions and requires the nurse to always act to benefit the client. Though this may clash with the principle of autonomy, the nurse should take into consideration the long-term and short-term consequences. For example, the patient may make decisions that lead to further future problems. The nurse should try to help the patient understand what is at stake and make the best decision. However, if the patient is competent in making his own decisions, the nurse should not override his decision.
Non-maleficence questions the benefits and burdens of certain treatments; it constantly clashes with the moral principle of beneficence. This principle guides nurses to do no harm and not act maliciously toward the patient. Under this principle, a nurse can choose to stop medication that is proving to be more harmful than beneficial. However, the nurse should inform the patient of the harms and benefits of a certain form of treatment.
The ethical principle of justice puts into consideration the consequences of the nurse's actions to other patients and the health institution. In this case, the nurse decides on a course of action that is fair and equitable to everyone. For example, a patient's refusal of early treatment may inconvenience the hospital or other patients. Additionally, nurses should treat patients fairly and give proper attention to each patient.