Name three care values that underpin ethical practice in health and social care.

• A. Wealth, speed, efficiency.
• B. Confidentiality, secrecy, obedience.
• C. Dignity, autonomy/choice, and equality.
• D. Independence, arrogance, rigidity.

Answer: (C)

Respecting people as whole individuals is the ground for ethical practice in health and social care. The three values that fit this aim are dignity, autonomy/choice, and equality. Dignity means treating every person with inherent worth—listening, respecting privacy, and avoiding stigma or demeaning treatment. Autonomy or choice focuses on supporting individuals to make informed decisions about their own care, offering clear information, and obtaining consent so people can direct their own pathways. Equality ensures fair treatment and access for everyone, no matter background, disability, or circumstances, so care is not biased or unequal.

In daily care, these values show up when you involve someone in planning their treatment, respect their preferences, and ensure services are accessible and inclusive. They align with fundamental ethical principles like respect for persons, justice, and beneficence, and they help professionals balance what’s best for the patient with the patient’s own preferences and rights.

Other options mix in traits or goals that don’t belong in ethical care—wealth, speed, and efficiency don’t address the person’s rights; secrecy and obedience undermine transparency and self-determination; and arrogance or rigidity contradict respectful, person-centered interaction.