A healthcare provider’s decision not to suggest unnecessary medical procedures demonstrates adherence to which ethical principle?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Beneficence
• C. Justice
• D. Integrity

Answer: (D)

Integrity in healthcare means upholding ethical standards, being honest with patients, and avoiding actions that could mislead or take advantage. When a provider chooses not to suggest procedures that aren’t medically necessary, this shows a commitment to professional values: they’re not proposing unnecessary care for personal gain or convenience, and they’re protecting the patient from needless risk and costs. This behavior demonstrates trustworthiness and fidelity to ethical duties, which is the essence of integrity.

Autonomy focuses on respecting a patient’s right to make informed decisions, and beneficence is about acting in the patient’s best interest and preventing harm. While these principles are certainly involved in clinical care, the specific act described—avoiding unnecessary procedures to stay true to professional standards—best illustrates integrity. Justice concerns fairness in the distribution of resources, which isn’t the central issue in this scenario.