Non-maleficence

Definition

Non-maleficence is an ethical principle that means 'do no harm.' In the context of healthcare and medicine, it emphasizes the importance of avoiding actions that can cause harm to patients. This principle is foundational in the practice of medicine and is closely linked to the Hippocratic Oath, where physicians pledge to uphold the well-being of their patients and refrain from any actions that could be detrimental to their health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Non-maleficence is a key component of medical ethics, guiding healthcare professionals to avoid causing harm while providing care.
2. In the Hippocratic Oath, physicians swear to practice medicine ethically and avoid actions that could harm patients.
3. The concept of non-maleficence can sometimes conflict with beneficence, particularly when making difficult treatment decisions.
4. Historical practices in medicine have sometimes violated the principle of non-maleficence, emphasizing its importance in current medical ethics.
5. In modern healthcare, non-maleficence is crucial for maintaining trust between patients and providers, ensuring a commitment to patient safety.

Review Questions

• How does the principle of non-maleficence relate to the Hippocratic Oath and the responsibilities of a physician?
  • The principle of non-maleficence is central to the Hippocratic Oath, where physicians commit to 'do no harm' as part of their ethical obligations. This principle guides physicians in their decision-making processes and interactions with patients. By adhering to non-maleficence, doctors prioritize patient safety and well-being, which reinforces the trust that patients place in their healthcare providers.
• Discuss a scenario where non-maleficence might conflict with beneficence in medical practice and how this tension can be resolved.
  • A common scenario where non-maleficence conflicts with beneficence is in end-of-life care. For instance, aggressive treatments intended to prolong life may cause significant pain or suffering, which could violate non-maleficence. To resolve this tension, healthcare providers must engage in open discussions with patients and their families about treatment goals and options. Balancing the desire to do good (beneficence) with the obligation not to cause harm (non-maleficence) often requires careful consideration of the patient's values and preferences.
• Evaluate the impact of historical violations of non-maleficence on contemporary medical ethics and practices.
  • Historical violations of non-maleficence, such as unethical experiments conducted without consent or adequate consideration for patient harm, have significantly shaped contemporary medical ethics. These events highlighted the need for strict ethical guidelines and oversight in research and clinical practice. As a result, modern healthcare emphasizes informed consent, patient autonomy, and robust ethical training for practitioners, all aimed at preventing future breaches of non-maleficence and fostering a culture of patient safety.

Related terms

Hippocratic Oath:

An ethical code attributed to the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, which outlines the responsibilities and ethical conduct expected of physicians.

Beneficence: An ethical principle that emphasizes actions that promote the well-being and best interests of patients.

Autonomy: The right of patients to make informed decisions about their own medical care and treatment.