Which principle emphasizes avoiding harm to patients?

Which principle emphasizes avoiding harm to patients?

• A. Beneficence
• B. Fidelity
• C. Nonmaleficence
• D. Veracity

Answer: (C)

Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle that centers on not causing harm to patients. It acts as a safeguard, guiding clinicians to avoid actions or treatments that could injure or unduly expose patients to risk. In practice, this means favoring options with the least potential for harm, especially when benefits are uncertain or marginal. This focus on avoiding harm distinguishes it from beneficence (doing good and promoting patient welfare), while fidelity involves keeping trust and commitments, and veracity emphasizes honesty. Thus, the idea of avoiding harm is the core idea captured by nonmaleficence.

Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle that centers on not causing harm to patients. It acts as a safeguard, guiding clinicians to avoid actions or treatments that could injure or unduly expose patients to risk. In practice, this means favoring options with the least potential for harm, especially when benefits are uncertain or marginal. This focus on avoiding harm distinguishes it from beneficence (doing good and promoting patient welfare), while fidelity involves keeping trust and commitments, and veracity emphasizes honesty. Thus, the idea of avoiding harm is the core idea captured by nonmaleficence.