A nurse discovers that the wrong dosage of a medication was given to a client. When determining what action to take, the nurse should recognize that which of the following ethical principles should be applied?

A. Utility: Utility focuses on actions that provide the greatest good for the greatest number. While relevant in some ethical decisions, it does not directly guide the nurse’s responsibility to report a medication error to the client or provider. B. Paternalism: Paternalism occurs when a healthcare professional makes decisions for a client without their consent, acting under the assumption that the professional "knows best." In the case of a medication error, paternalism might lead a nurse to hide the mistake to "protect" the client from anxiety. This is considered an ethical violation because it strips the client of their right to self-determination and awareness of their own health status. The nurse must avoid paternalistic secrecy and prioritize the client's right to the truth. C. Fidelity: Fidelity refers to keeping promises and being faithful to commitments. Although it supports trustworthy behavior, it does not specifically address the obligation to provide truthful information about errors. D. Veracity: Applying the principle of veracity is the priority when a medication error is discovered. Veracity refers to the nurse's obligation to be truthful with the client, the healthcare team, and in the formal documentation of the event. Disclosing the wrong dosage immediately allows the provider to assess for toxicity or adverse reactions and ensures that the client's medical record is accurate. Honesty is the "gold standard" for preserving the trust within the nurse-client relationship and is a requirement of professional nursing boards.