The phrase 'Do no harm' defines which ethical principle in nursing?

• A. Respect patient autonomy.
• B. Provide best possible care regardless of risk.
• C. Do no harm.
• D. Ensure equal access to services.

Answer: (C)

Nonmaleficence, the obligation to do no harm, is the ethical principle described by that phrase. In nursing, it means clinicians must avoid actions that could injure the patient and minimize potential risks associated with care. This guides decisions such as preventing unsafe procedures, using proper techniques to avoid harm, and stopping interventions when risks clearly outweigh benefits. Remember, doing no harm doesn’t mean never harming; it means keeping harm to a minimum and avoiding avoidable injuries. Autonomy focuses on respecting patient choices, beneficence on doing good and promoting well-being, and justice on fair access and distribution of care.