Which ethical principle requires healthcare providers to avoid causing harm?

The ethical principle that requires healthcare providers to avoid causing harm is known as nonmaleficence. This principle emphasizes the duty of healthcare professionals to refrain from any actions that could potentially cause injury or suffering to patients. It serves as a foundational concept in medical ethics, guiding practitioners to weigh the risks and benefits of treatments and interventions to ensure patient safety and well-being. By adhering to the principle of nonmaleficence, healthcare providers commit to preventing harm, which is crucial in building trust and maintaining the integrity of the medical profession.

In contrast, justice pertains to fairness and equity in healthcare distribution, advocating that resources and treatments should be allocated without bias. Veracity relates to honesty and the obligation of healthcare providers to provide truthful information to patients. Fidelity emphasizes the duty to keep promises and maintain loyalty to patients. While each of these principles plays an important role in healthcare ethics, none specifically addresses the direct responsibility of avoiding harm, which is uniquely defined by nonmaleficence.