Which statement best describes beneficence?

• A. Taking positive actions to help others.
• B. Avoiding harm or injury.
• C. Ensuring fair distribution of resources.
• D. Keeping promises to patients.

Answer: (A)

Beneficence means actively promoting a patient’s well-being through positive actions. In nursing, this involves taking steps that genuinely benefit the patient—providing relief from symptoms, supporting recovery, offering comfort, and advocating for what will help their health. That’s why taking positive actions to help others is the best description of beneficence.

Other ethical duties describe different responsibilities: avoiding harm or injury is nonmaleficence, focusing on not causing harm; ensuring fair distribution of resources is justice, about fairness and equity; keeping promises to patients is fidelity, the obligation to be loyal and honor commitments. Beneficence centers on doing good for the patient, though it should be balanced with respect for the patient’s preferences and autonomy.