What does informed consent protect in healthcare settings?

Informed consent is a fundamental principle in healthcare that prioritizes patient autonomy, which refers to the right of patients to make informed decisions about their own medical care. This process ensures that patients are fully aware of the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives related to a treatment or procedure before agreeing to it. By emphasizing informed consent, healthcare providers respect and acknowledge each patient's personal values, beliefs, and preferences, allowing them to actively participate in their own healthcare decisions.

Although the other options may pertain to various aspects of healthcare, they do not reflect the primary focus of informed consent. Patient autonomy is central to ethical medical practice because it empowers individuals to make choices that align with their own interests and well-being. This respect for autonomy ultimately fosters trust between the patient and healthcare provider, enhancing the overall quality of care.