Word parts
What it means
One of the core principles of health care ethicsETH-iksThe study of right and wrong, and the principles that guide good conduct and decisions.eth/o custom, character-ics the study ofFull entry . It asks the nurse to take positive steps to help the client, promote their well-being and prevent harm. It sits beside nonmaleficencenon-muh-LEF-ih-sunsThe ethical principle of doing no harm to the client.non- notmale- bad, ill-ficence doingFull entry (do no harm), autonomyaw-TON-uh-meeA person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.Full entry (respect the client's choices) and justiceJUS-tisThe ethical principle of treating people fairly and sharing care and resources fairly.Full entry (fairness). Beneficence can clash with autonomy, for example when a client refuses a treatment the team believes would help.
For the nurse
On the exam, choices that actively help the client, such as staying with a frightened client or getting pain relief quickly, show beneficence.
Remember it
Bene means good, as in "benefit".
At a glance
| Spanish | beneficencia |
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Related terms
advocate
To speak up and act for a client's rights, safety and wishes; also, a person who does this.
autonomy
A person's right to make their own choices about their body and their care.
ethics
The study of right and wrong, and the principles that guide good conduct and decisions.
justice
The ethical principle of treating people fairly and sharing care and resources fairly.
nonmaleficence
The ethical principle of doing no harm to the client.