The principle that supports acting in the patient's best interest and promoting good is called?

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

Answer: (B)

Beneficence is the principle that supports acting in the patient's best interest and promoting good. In nursing ethics, it means taking actions that benefit the patient—relieving suffering, protecting health, and helping them achieve the best possible outcomes. This guides interventions like providing effective pain relief, timely care, and support that improves well-being, all while considering the patient’s situation and values. Autonomy centers on the patient’s right to make their own choices; nonmaleficence is about avoiding harm; veracity is about telling the truth. Beneficence and autonomy are balanced in practice, ensuring efforts to do good align with the patient’s preferences and rights.