Which of the following best describes nonmaleficence?

Nonmaleficence is a fundamental principle in healthcare ethics that is primarily focused on the obligation to avoid causing harm to patients. It emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers taking steps to prevent injury or suffering to patients, which underscores the ethical responsibility to safeguard patient well-being.

The concept of nonmaleficence is closely aligned with the Hippocratic Oath, which instructs physicians to "first, do no harm." This principle serves as a guiding standard in clinical practice, influencing treatment decisions and interventions to ensure that healthcare professionals prioritize the safety and health of their patients above all else.

The other options, while related to aspects of patient care and ethics, do not capture the essence of nonmaleficence specifically. For instance, increasing treatment options pertains more to beneficence—enhancing patient well-being—rather than avoiding harm. Encouraging patient involvement in care relates more to respect for autonomy, which focuses on honoring patients' rights and preferences. Lastly, ensuring a paternalistic approach contradicts the principle of nonmaleficence, as it can lead to situations where healthcare providers make decisions without considering the patient's wishes, potentially causing harm by disregarding patients’ autonomy and preferences.