Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

What is the key principle of Ethical Veracity?

1. Ensuring patient safety

2. Communicating with honesty

3. Decision-making for patients

4. Compromising for the common good

The correct answer is: Communicating with honesty

The key principle of Ethical Veracity centers on the importance of communicating with honesty. Veracity refers to the commitment of healthcare professionals to tell the truth and provide accurate information to patients. This principle is foundational in building trust between patients and healthcare providers, as it ensures that patients have all necessary information to make informed decisions about their care. When healthcare professionals uphold veracity, they foster an environment where patients feel respected and valued, which can enhance patient satisfaction and cooperation during their treatment. By being truthful, they help patients understand their health conditions, treatment options, and potential outcomes, allowing for informed consent and shared decision-making. In contrast, the other concepts listed—such as ensuring patient safety, decision-making for patients, and compromising for the common good—while important aspects of healthcare ethics, do not specifically focus on the aspect of truth-telling and honest communication that defines veracity. Each plays a significant role in patient care, but the core of Ethical Veracity lies in the commitment to honesty.