Which ethical principle is the duty to do no harm?

• A. Beneficence
• B. Autonomy
• C. Justice
• D. Non-maleficence

Answer: (D)

In veterinary ethics, the duty to do no harm is non-maleficence. This principle means avoiding actions that could harm the patient or cause unnecessary pain or suffering. In practice, it underpins decisions like using proper analgesia and anesthesia, choosing safer treatment options, and carefully weighing risks versus benefits before proceeding with a procedure. It’s about protecting welfare and preventing harm even as we work to improve health.

Beneficence is about doing good and promoting the patient’s welfare, which may involve beneficial actions that carry some risk if the net effect is positive. Autonomy focuses on respecting the decisions of those making choices for the patient, typically the owner in veterinary care. Justice concerns fairness in the distribution of care and resources. Non-maleficence specifically targets avoiding harm, making it the correct principle for the prompt’s wording.