In the context of ethical decision-making, what does the principle of beneficence mean for nurses?

The principle of beneficence refers to the ethical obligation of healthcare professionals, including nurses, to actively promote the well-being and welfare of patients. This principle goes beyond merely avoiding harm and emphasizes the proactive role that nurses play in ensuring that patients receive care that enhances their health, improves their quality of life, and supports their overall well-being. It involves taking positive actions that contribute to the health and comfort of patients, including advocating for their needs, providing appropriate interventions, and supporting their physical and emotional health.

Understanding beneficence in nursing practice means recognizing the importance of not only delivering safe care but also engaging in behaviors that contribute positively to the patient's experience. This can include providing pain relief, ensuring nutritional needs are met, and offering emotional support.

Other principles, such as non-maleficence, focus on avoiding harm, while justice emphasizes fairness in treatment, and confidentiality pertains to the protection of patient information. Beneficence distinctly underscores the importance of active involvement in enhancing patient outcomes, setting it apart from these other ethical considerations.