A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is requesting pain medication. The nurse returns to the bedside to administer the pain medication within the timeframe given to the client. Which of the following ethical principles did the nurse follow?

A. Fidelity: Fidelity involves keeping promises and honoring commitments made to the client. By returning to administer pain medication within the timeframe promised, the nurse demonstrates reliability and maintains trust in the nurse–client relationship. B. Justice: Justice refers to fairness and equal treatment of all clients. Although important in care delivery, it does not specifically address keeping a promise or following through on a commitment to an individual client. C. Autonomy: Autonomy supports the client’s right to make informed decisions about their care. While requesting pain medication reflects autonomy, the nurse’s action of returning on time aligns more directly with honoring a commitment. D. Beneficence: Beneficence involves acting in the client’s best interest by promoting comfort and well-being. Administering pain medication supports beneficence, but the defining ethical principle in this scenario is the nurse’s follow-through on a promise.