Which ethical principle is most closely aligned with acting in the patient’s best interest?

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

Answer: (B)

Beneficence is the principle of promoting the patient’s well-being and acting in their best interest. It guides nurses to take proactive steps that benefit the child’s health, such as providing effective pain relief, timely treatment, and supportive care that improve outcomes. Nonmaleficence means do no harm, which is important but focuses on avoiding harm rather than actively promoting good. Autonomy centers on respecting the patient’s or family’s right to make decisions, which is less about the physician’s or nurse’s actions to benefit the patient. Justice concerns fair distribution of care and resources. In pediatric practice, beneficence specifically drives actions aimed at the child’s overall welfare and best outcomes.