Which statement best reflects the ethical principle of veracity?

Which statement best reflects the ethical principle of veracity?

• A. It is okay to withhold information to protect feelings.
• B. I will avoid discussing prognosis to prevent distress.
• C. I will always do what the patient asks.
• D. I will be honest with the patient about the plan of care.

Answer: (D)

Veracity means telling the truth to patients and not deceiving them. The statement that best reflects this is being honest with the patient about the plan of care, because it provides a truthful description of what will be done, why it’s being done, and what to expect, enabling informed consent and respecting the patient’s autonomy. Withholding information to protect feelings or avoiding discussing prognosis prevents the patient from making fully informed choices and can erode trust. Likewise, always doing exactly what the patient asks may ignore professional judgment and important safety or medical considerations. Being honest about the plan of care demonstrates open, trustworthy communication and supports the patient’s ability to participate meaningfully in their treatment.

Veracity means telling the truth to patients and not deceiving them. The statement that best reflects this is being honest with the patient about the plan of care, because it provides a truthful description of what will be done, why it’s being done, and what to expect, enabling informed consent and respecting the patient’s autonomy. Withholding information to protect feelings or avoiding discussing prognosis prevents the patient from making fully informed choices and can erode trust. Likewise, always doing exactly what the patient asks may ignore professional judgment and important safety or medical considerations. Being honest about the plan of care demonstrates open, trustworthy communication and supports the patient’s ability to participate meaningfully in their treatment.