Which ethical principle is highlighted when lack of access to affordable health care causes harm?

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

Answer: (C)

Nonmaleficence is being tested here. It embodies the obligation to do no harm to patients. When lack of access to affordable health care results in harm—delayed treatment, deterioration of conditions, or suffering that could have been avoided—the situation violates this principle. The focus is on preventing harm through the absence of barriers to care, which is exactly what nonmaleficence calls nurses and the health system to uphold.

Beneficence involves actively promoting good and providing beneficial care, which is related but emphasizes doing good rather than preventing harm. Autonomy centers on respecting patients’ rights to make their own choices, and veracity concerns truthful communication. The harm tied to inaccessible care aligns most directly with nonmaleficence.