Which principle is defined as being of benefit to the patient and preventing harm?

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

Answer: (B)

Beneficence centers on actions that promote the patient’s well-being. It requires us to actively seek ways to do good for the patient and to prevent or reduce harm as part of promoting overall health. In practice, this means choosing options that maximize benefit while minimizing risk, rather than simply avoiding harm.

Autonomy is about respecting the patient’s right to make their own decisions. Justice involves fairness in the distribution of care. Nonmaleficence means "do no harm," but it doesn’t by itself require actively promoting benefit. The question’s emphasis on both benefiting the patient and preventing harm fits beneficence, since it encompasses taking proactive steps to enhance welfare and reduce risk for the patient.