A nurse is teaching a class on ethical principles. The nurse should include that protecting a client's safety by not causing harm refers to which of the following ethical principles?

A. Fidelity. Fidelity refers to the duty to be faithful and loyal to one’s professional obligations and to keep promises made to the client. While it supports the nurse-client relationship, it is not the primary principle focused on preventing physical or psychological harm. It emphasizes the reliability and trust inherent in the healthcare professional's role. B. Justice. The principle of justice focuses on the fair and equitable distribution of healthcare resources and treatments. It ensures that all clients receive the same standard of care regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or background. Justice does not specifically address the direct avoidance of harm to an individual patient during clinical procedures. C. Beneficence. Beneficence is the ethical obligation to "do good" and act in ways that benefit the client's health and well-being. While closely related to nonmaleficence, it focuses on positive actions that improve the client's condition. It goes beyond merely avoiding harm by actively seeking to promote the best possible clinical outcomes for the patient. D. Nonmaleficence. Nonmaleficence is the fundamental ethical principle that obligates healthcare providers to "do no harm." This requires nurses to protect the safety of their clients by avoiding actions that could cause injury, suffering, or death. It serves as the baseline for all clinical interventions, ensuring that the risks of any treatment do not outweigh the potential benefits.