Which nursing ethics principle is concerned with fairness in distributing resources and opportunities?

Which nursing ethics principle is concerned with fairness in distributing resources and opportunities?

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

Answer: (C)

Justice is the principle that governs fairness in distributing resources and opportunities. In nursing, this means treating all patients equitably, ensuring access to care and benefits without bias, even when resources are limited. It guides decisions like triage or allocating medications so that no group is unfairly favored or disadvantaged, and it encourages advocating for systems that promote equity for everyone. Fidelity focuses on keeping promises and being trustworthy in the nurse–patient relationship; autonomy is about respecting a patient’s right to make their own health decisions; nonmaleficence is the obligation to do no harm. These principles flow from ethical duties but address different aspects of care—keeping commitments, honoring patient choice, and avoiding harm—while justice centers on fair distribution and impartial treatment.

Justice is the principle that governs fairness in distributing resources and opportunities. In nursing, this means treating all patients equitably, ensuring access to care and benefits without bias, even when resources are limited. It guides decisions like triage or allocating medications so that no group is unfairly favored or disadvantaged, and it encourages advocating for systems that promote equity for everyone.

Fidelity focuses on keeping promises and being trustworthy in the nurse–patient relationship; autonomy is about respecting a patient’s right to make their own health decisions; nonmaleficence is the obligation to do no harm. These principles flow from ethical duties but address different aspects of care—keeping commitments, honoring patient choice, and avoiding harm—while justice centers on fair distribution and impartial treatment.