Describe the ethical principle of beneficence.

The ethical principle of beneficence refers to the moral obligation of healthcare providers to act in the best interests of their patients. This involves promoting good, providing beneficial care, and preventing harm. Each healthcare decision should prioritize the welfare of the patient, ensuring that actions taken contribute positively to their health and well-being.

Beneficence underscores the importance of not just avoiding harm (non-maleficence) but actively doing good for patients. For instance, when making treatment decisions, a nurse must consider the risks and benefits, advocating for interventions that will enhance the patient's health and quality of life. This principle is central to nursing practice and ethical decision-making, as practitioners strive to deliver care that upholds patients' dignity and needs.

In contrast, other options focus on different ethical principles. One pertains to patient confidentiality, which emphasizes respect for privacy; another highlights patients' autonomy—their right to make personal health decisions. The last option refers to justice in healthcare, which involves providing care without discrimination, ensuring fair treatment for all patients. While all these principles are essential in the healthcare setting, beneficence specifically emphasizes the active role of healthcare providers in contributing positively to patient health and safety.