Which principle is defined as the avoidance of harm or hurt?

• A. Nonmaleficence
• B. Autonomy
• C. Beneficence
• D. Justice

Answer: (A)

Nonmaleficence is the principle that asks clinicians to avoid causing harm to patients. In nursing, this means carefully choosing actions, procedures, and treatments so they don’t inflict harm and so risks of harm are minimized. It’s often summarized as “do no harm,” guiding decisions like safely administering medications, preventing injuries during care, and stopping or modifying an intervention if its risks outweigh the benefits.

This principle contrasts with autonomy, which centers on respecting a patient’s right to make their own informed choices; beneficence, which focuses on actively promoting the patient’s good and well-being; and justice, which deals with fairness and equitable distribution of care.