Beneficence in nursing ethics is best described as focusing on:

• A. What is good for the client
• B. What the family requests regardless of outcome
• C. Avoiding all risks even if it harms the patient
• D. Prioritizing institutional policy over patient needs

Answer: (A)

Beneficence in nursing ethics means taking actions that promote the patient’s well‑being and welfare. The nurse’s aim is to do good for the client by relieving suffering, supporting recovery, ensuring safety, and advocating for needed care. This is best described by focusing on what is good for the client. While involving the family and following policies are important, beneficence centers on the patient’s best interests, not simply honoring family requests if they don’t align with the patient’s welfare, avoiding any risk at all costs if that would withhold beneficial care, or letting institutional rules override patient needs.