Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of doing no harm?

1. Respect for autonomy

2. Non-maleficence

3. Beneficence

4. Distributive justice

The correct answer is: Non-maleficence

The ethical principle that emphasizes the importance of doing no harm is non-maleficence. This principle is foundational in healthcare and nursing practices, guiding professionals to avoid causing unnecessary harm to patients. Non-maleficence requires that interventions and treatments be carefully considered to ensure they do not lead to adverse effects or negative outcomes for individuals receiving care. Balancing this principle with beneficence, which is focused on actively promoting good and providing benefits to patients, is essential. Non-maleficence serves as a crucial safeguard against the potential risks and harms that can arise from medical interventions. In practice, it compels nurses and healthcare providers to critically evaluate the risks associated with any procedure, treatment, or medication, ensuring that actions taken are in the best interest of the patient while minimizing harm. In contrast, respect for autonomy focuses on honoring a patient's right to make their own decisions, and distributive justice addresses the equitable allocation of healthcare resources. Although these principles are important in the broader context of ethics in nursing, they do not specifically highlight the commitment to avoid harm as non-maleficence does.