A nurse asks a client if they prefer to attend the morning or afternoon group therapy session. The nurse should identify that this as an example of which of the following ethical principles?

A. Beneficence involves actions that promote the well-being of clients, such as administering effective treatments, providing comfort measures, or implementing interventions that improve health outcomes. While the nurse’s question may indirectly support well-being, beneficence focuses more on actively doing good rather than offering choice. B. Nonmaleficence is the principle of avoiding harm or preventing injury to clients. It guides nurses to consider potential risks of interventions and minimize harm, but it does not directly relate to offering clients options about scheduling. C. Justice pertains to fairness, equality, and equitable distribution of healthcare resources and services. Ensuring all clients have equal access to therapy is an example, but the nurse asking about preference is not addressing fairness or allocation of resources. D. Autonomy is the client’s right to make informed decisions about their own care. By asking the client whether they prefer a morning or afternoon session, the nurse is respecting the client’s personal preferences and supporting self-determination, which is a direct application of the principle of autonomy. This allows the client to feel empowered and involved in their care plan.