Which principle of nursing ethics refers to the duty to do good?

The principle that refers to the duty to do good is beneficence. In nursing ethics, beneficence emphasizes the importance of actions that promote the well-being of patients. It guides nurses to act in ways that are beneficial, fostering health, and alleviating suffering. This principle not only involves providing necessary care but also encompasses advocating for patients, ensuring their dignity, and fostering a therapeutic environment.

In practice, beneficence might manifest through various means such as administering medications, providing education about health management, or involving patients in decisions about their care to enhance their overall health outcomes. It is a fundamental ethical obligation for healthcare professionals, reinforcing their commitment to prioritize the health and welfare of those they serve.

The other principles, while important, do not specifically denote the duty to do good; justice relates to fairness and equality in healthcare, veracity refers to truthfulness and honesty in communication with patients, and autonomy emphasizes the right of individuals to make their own choices regarding their healthcare. Each of these principles has its own critical role in nursing ethics, but beneficence distinctly focuses on the positive obligation to act in the best interests of patients.