What ethical principle obligates health care providers to tell the truth?

• A. Veracity
• B. Autonomy
• C. Beneficence
• D. Nonmaleficence

Answer: (A)

Veracity is the obligation to tell the truth and provide accurate information to patients. This principle underpins informed consent by ensuring patients have the facts they need to understand their condition, options, risks, and benefits, so they can make decisions that reflect their values. Autonomy is the right of patients to decide for themselves, and veracity enables that autonomy by supplying truthful information; beneficence and nonmaleficence guide how we act in the patient’s best interest and avoid harm, but the explicit duty to be truthful is veracity. In practice, this means communicating clearly, acknowledging uncertainties, and correcting misinformation to maintain trust and respect in the patient–provider relationship.