Which term is a commitment to do no harm?

Which term is a commitment to do no harm?

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

Answer: (A)

In professional ethics, not causing harm is the guiding obligation, captured by nonmaleficence. This principle centers on avoiding actions that could injure patients, minimizing risk, and choosing safer options even when benefits might be possible with riskier paths. It’s the commitment behind saying interventions should not harm more than they help. Beneficence, while related, is about actively doing good and helping others. Fidelity focuses on trust and keeping promises, and autonomy is about respecting individuals’ right to make their own decisions. So nonmaleficence best matches the idea of a commitment to do no harm.

In professional ethics, not causing harm is the guiding obligation, captured by nonmaleficence. This principle centers on avoiding actions that could injure patients, minimizing risk, and choosing safer options even when benefits might be possible with riskier paths. It’s the commitment behind saying interventions should not harm more than they help.

Beneficence, while related, is about actively doing good and helping others. Fidelity focuses on trust and keeping promises, and autonomy is about respecting individuals’ right to make their own decisions. So nonmaleficence best matches the idea of a commitment to do no harm.