Which scenario best demonstrates veracity?

• A. Providing a patient with inaccurate prognosis to avoid distress.
• B. Sharing complete and accurate information with patient when appropriate.
• C. Withholding information to protect a patient from fear.
• D. Changing the truth to obtain consent.

Answer: (B)

Veracity means telling the truth and not deceiving patients. The best choice demonstrates veracity by sharing complete and accurate information with the patient when appropriate, which honors the patient’s autonomy and supports informed decision-making. Providing an inaccurate prognosis to avoid distress is misleading and can undermine trust and the patient’s ability to make informed choices. Withholding information to protect from fear denies the patient the right to know about their care. Changing the truth to obtain consent is deception and violates the obligation to truth-tell.