What ethical principle emphasizes doing good for the patient?

The ethical principle that emphasizes doing good for the patient is beneficence. Beneficence refers to the moral obligation to take actions that promote the well-being and welfare of others, which is especially relevant in healthcare and nursing practice. This principle guides healthcare providers to not only avoid harm but actively engage in practices that enhance patients’ health and quality of life.

In the context of forensic nursing, beneficence might involve providing appropriate care, support, and advocacy for victims of violence or trauma, ensuring that their needs are prioritized and addressed. This principle is critical in fostering trust and maintaining a patient-centered approach in care delivery.

The other principles also play significant roles in ethical decision-making. Nonmalfeasance focuses on the duty to avoid causing harm, autonomy emphasizes respecting patients' rights to make their own decisions, and justice pertains to fairness and equality in treatment and resource distribution. Although these principles are important, beneficence specifically highlights the proactive aspect of promoting good for the patient, making it the correct choice for this question.