Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam

In the context of nursing ethics, what does the term "beneficence" mean?

1. The obligation to keep patient information confidential

2. The ethical principle of doing good and promoting well-being

3. The enforcement of legal obligations in practice

4. The acknowledgment of patient autonomy in decision-making

The correct answer is: The ethical principle of doing good and promoting well-being

The term "beneficence" in nursing ethics refers to the ethical principle of doing good and promoting well-being. This principle emphasizes the importance of actions that benefit the patient and enhance their health, comfort, and overall quality of life. In the nursing context, it involves providing care that not only avoids harm but also actively contributes to the patient's physical and mental well-being. For instance, this can manifest in advocating for necessary treatments, offering supportive care, and ensuring that patients have access to resources that support their health. While confidentiality, legal obligations, and patient autonomy are crucial aspects of nursing practice and ethics, they fall under different principles. Maintaining confidentiality is about respecting patient privacy, which relates more closely to the principle of fidelity. Enforcing legal obligations pertains to adherence to laws and regulations, which is essential for safe practice but does not encompass the essence of beneficence. Patient autonomy focuses on honoring the choices and rights of patients to make decisions about their care, an important ethical consideration that stands apart from the notion of actively promoting their well-being. Understanding beneficence is vital for nurses as they strive to provide holistic and compassionate care.