What does nonmaleficence refer to in healthcare settings?

Nonmaleficence is a fundamental ethical principle in healthcare that emphasizes the duty of healthcare professionals to avoid causing harm to patients. This principle obligates practitioners not only to refrain from actions that may harm patients but also to consider the potential consequences of their interventions and decisions. In the context of patient care, nonmaleficence prioritizes safety and well-being, ensuring that all measures taken in treatment or care do not lead to unnecessary injury or suffering.

In practical terms, this means that healthcare providers must carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of proposed treatments or procedures, always aiming to minimize any potential harm. By adhering to the principle of nonmaleficence, healthcare professionals strive to uphold patients' trust and ensure ethical practice within the clinical environment.