Which principle signifies the obligation to avoid causing harm to patients?

The principle that signifies the obligation to avoid causing harm to patients is known as Nonmalfeasance. This ethical principle emphasizes the importance of healthcare providers doing no harm as part of their duty to care for patients. It underlines the commitment to protect patients from unnecessary risks and to ensure that medical interventions do not produce adverse effects.

In a healthcare context, adhering to the principle of nonmalfeasance means that professionals must carefully consider the potential consequences of their actions and make decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of their patients. This principle is foundational in building trust in the patient-provider relationship, as it reassures patients that their health and safety are paramount concerns of their caregivers.

Other principles, such as Justice, Beneficence, and Autonomy, focus on different aspects of ethical healthcare practice. Justice relates to fairness and equitable treatment, Beneficence emphasizes the necessity of contributing to the welfare of patients, and Autonomy highlights the importance of respecting a patient's personal choices and rights. While these principles are all important in ethical decision-making within healthcare, none specifically address the duty to refrain from causing harm in the same direct manner as nonmalfeasance.