Which ethical principle relates to keeping promises to patients in healthcare?

The principle related to keeping promises to patients in healthcare is fidelity. In the context of healthcare ethics, fidelity refers to the commitment healthcare professionals have to uphold their promises, maintain trust, and honor their agreements with patients. This principle is foundational in building and sustaining trust in the patient-provider relationship, ensuring that patients feel safe and secure in their treatment.

When healthcare providers adhere to the principle of fidelity, they respect the expectations and agreements made with patients, such as confidentiality, provision of care, and following through on treatment plans. This dedication enhances the therapeutic alliance and fosters an environment where patients can engage openly with their healthcare providers.

In contrast, the other principles listed, such as justice, autonomy, and beneficence, serve different ethical functions. Justice emphasizes fairness and equal treatment, autonomy underscores the importance of respecting patient choices, and beneficence focuses on promoting the well-being of patients. While all these principles are crucial in healthcare ethics, fidelity specifically addresses the aspect of promise-keeping and trustworthiness in the patient-provider relationship.