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

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

Answer: (A)

Nonmaleficence is the obligation to avoid harming patients. In nursing ethics, this principle guides actions so that care does not cause unnecessary injury, pain, or suffering and so that risks are weighed against benefits before proceeding with any intervention. It supports practices like using sterile techniques to prevent infection, choosing the least risky yet effective treatment, and stopping or modifying care if the potential harm outweighs potential benefit. While other principles matter—justice focuses on fairness, fidelity on keeping promises, and autonomy on respecting patient choices—nonmaleficence specifically centers on preventing harm.