Nonmaleficence and Beneficence Flashcards
What us Nonmaleficence?
The ethical and legal duty to avoid harming others.
“Do no harm”
What is the ethical principle of nonmaleficece?
HCP must not INTENTIONALLY and MALICIOUSLY cause harm or injury
*This applies to omissions and affirmative acts
When is the ethical prinicple of nonmalfience always vitolted?
if there is a sexual relationship with a patient
What is Beneficence?
An Obligation to create and benefit and contribute to optimum health for individuals and community at large
The official conduct of beneficence carries out what?
The patient’s best interest
What does beneficence include?
1) the obligation to help those in trouble, (2) protect patient’s rights, and (3) provide treatment for those who need it
Why is nonmaleficence consider clear cut?
Legal standards that state what is and isn’t an act of omission or commission in care
When does negligence occur?
When a HCP fails to meet the standards of due care
4 legal criteria for determining negligence
1) the professional must have a duty to the affected party
2) the professional must breach that duty
3) the affected party must experience a harm
4) the harm must be caused by the breach of duty
Two Examples of Harm
Physical Harm
Emotional Harm
Is harm sometimes necessary?
Yes, however the benefits should ideally outweigh the suffering that may be caused
How is beneficence included in health care?
Viewed as an ethical act called a “Due Care Standard”
3 Examples in which Beneficence is included in Health Care
The most appropriate treatment with lease amount of pain and suffering was chosen
Care was provided by professionals with appropriate levels of education and training
There are policies in place for safety and protection of physical health of patient; protection of dignity (includes HIPAA and Infection Control)
2 Examples of Nonmaleficence and Beneficence for Physical Therapists
1) Safety
2) Fair Treatment (nondiscrimination)
What is Justice?
Equality, or fair treatment
