Which term represents the basic entitlement that ensures individuals can participate in decisions about their own health care?

• A. Rights
• B. Seclusion
• C. Scale
• D. Seizure

Answer: (A)

The basic entitlement that ensures individuals can participate in decisions about their own health care is patient rights. When people have rights, they can receive information in understandable terms, ask questions, weigh options, and give informed consent or decline treatment. This participation respects their autonomy and often leads to care that aligns with their values and preferences, improving safety and trust in the care team. Seclusion is a confinement safety measure, not a right to participate in decisions. A scale refers to measurement, not to personal decision-making. A seizure is a medical event, not a concept about one’s rights in health care. In CNA practice, honoring rights means clear communication, protecting privacy, supporting informed choices, and involving the patient—or their legal surrogate—when the patient cannot participate directly.