A nurse is caring for a client whose partner recently died. The nurse sits with the client to provide comfort. Which of the following ethical principles is the nurse demonstrating?

Rationale: A. Veracity: Veracity involves telling the truth and providing accurate information. While important in building trust, it is not the ethical principle most relevant to offering emotional presence during grief. B. Fidelity: Fidelity refers to being faithful to promises and responsibilities, including maintaining confidentiality and following through on care. It does not specifically reflect the act of offering comfort in grief. C. Beneficence: Beneficence is the act of doing good and promoting the well-being of others. By sitting with the grieving client to provide comfort, the nurse is demonstrating compassion and aiming to alleviate suffering. D. Autonomy: Autonomy refers to respecting a client’s right to make their own decisions regarding care. While essential in healthcare, it does not directly relate to the nurse’s compassionate presence during bereavement.