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Personal Autonomy: Development of a Nursing Outcomes Classification Label

Psychology Associates, Ltd., in Clinton, Iowa

Dianne Wasson, RN, MSN

University of Iowa Health Plans Office, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, in Iowa City, Iowa

Veronica Brighton, ARNP, CS, MA

University of Iowa College of Nursing in Iowa City, Iowa

Lois Dixon, RN, BC, MSN

Genesis Medical Center in Davenport, Iowa

Mary Ann Anderson, RN, PhD

University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing, Quad Cities Regional Program, in Moline, Illinois

Autonomy is defined as having control over one’s life, not being subject to the will of another, the right of self-determination, and the right to decide, or freedom of choice. An autonomous individual is protected from unwanted interference. There is a consistent theme running through the literature of nursing, medicine, and ethics that assumes that the autonomous individual is sufficiently competent to receive, understand, and make choices based on information available. Using a focus group approach, a Nursing Outcomes Classification label, a definition, and indicators were developed for personal autonomy. The definition and indicators were refined into a conceptually and clinically coherent outcome. Findings include the definition and 11 measurable indicators. Clinical relevance and utility are currently under investigation.

Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, Vol. 9, No. 5, 167-172 (2003)
DOI: 10.1016/S1078-3903(03)00225-8


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