Autonomy is considered one of the seven universal principles of health care ethics. Which of the following is an example of autonomy?

A. A physician performs health care screenings for impoverished patients.
B. A housekeeper in the hospital performs duties following safety procedures.
C. A health care practitioner makes competent decisions related to patient care.
D. An X-ray technician follows HIPAA regulations when displaying X-rays.
E. A surgeon tells the patient that the surgery could result in death.

C. A health care practitioner makes competent decisions related to patient care.

Autonomy is characterized by competency, ability to act on decisions, and respect for the autonomy of others. Performing screenings for impoverished patients is an example of beneficence. Keeping patients safe is an example of non-maleficence. Confidentiality is protected when the HIPAA act is followed. The surgeon being very straightforward is an example of veracity.