Which ethical principle is about acting in the patient's best interests?

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

Answer: (B)

Beneficence is about promoting the patient’s well‑being and acting in their best interests. In practice, this means choosing actions and treatments that have a favorable balance of benefits for the patient, aiming to improve health, relieve suffering, and prevent harm. It also involves considering the patient’s values and goals, obtaining informed consent, and sometimes choosing to refrain from an intervention when its burdens outweigh the benefits.

Autonomy centers on respecting the patient’s right to make their own decisions; justice focuses on fair distribution of resources and fair treatment; nonmaleficence means avoiding harm. When deciding among options, beneficence guides us toward actions most likely to benefit the patient and enhance outcomes.