Personal autonomy of patients undergoing chemotherapy at the Instituto Nacional de Câncer

Abstract

Patients are ensured personal autonomy through access to information and full knowledge of their health and treatment options for fully-informed decision-making. This qualitative study investigates how oncology patients perceive respect for their personal autonomy during chemotherapy. Data were collected by means of interviews with patients initiating drug therapy, followed by content analysis based on the bioethics of protection for presenting and discussing the results. Network and services organization of low quality can limit personal autonomy. Due to religious precepts or trust in the expert, as someone who holds specialized knowledge, patients may end up leaving decision-making regarding their treatment options to the professionals.