Which principle means to do good for others?

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

Answer: (B)

Beneficence means doing good for others. In nursing, it’s the obligation to act in ways that promote the patient’s welfare, relieve suffering, and bring about beneficial outcomes. This involves choosing interventions with real benefits, supporting recovery, and advocating for resources or changes that improve health. For example, providing effective pain relief, offering preventive care, and coordinating care to help a patient recover all reflect beneficence.

Autonomy focuses on respecting a patient’s right to make their own decisions; nonmaleficence means avoiding harm; justice concerns fair and equitable distribution of care. The principle described—doing good for others—best captures beneficence.