What ethical principle emphasizes maintaining client confidentiality?

The ethical principle that emphasizes maintaining client confidentiality is rooted in the concept of advocacy. Advocacy in the field of public health nursing involves representing and promoting the rights and interests of clients, which fundamentally includes safeguarding their personal information. Nurses and healthcare providers have a responsibility to protect clients’ privacy and ensure that sensitive information is not disclosed without their consent. This ethical commitment is essential for fostering trust between clients and healthcare providers, allowing for open communication that is crucial for effective care.

Informed consent, while crucial in healthcare, primarily focuses on obtaining permission from a client before proceeding with treatment or intervention, ensuring that the client is fully aware of the risks and benefits. Service refers to the provision of care and assistance to clients, and integrity relates to the honesty and moral principles guiding healthcare practice. However, these do not specifically address the confidentiality aspect as directly as advocacy does.