Care Manager Certification Practice Exam

What ethical principle involves protecting a client's safety by preventing harm?

1. Beneficence

2. Fidelity

3. Nonmaleficence

4. Justice

The correct answer is: Nonmaleficence

The ethical principle that involves protecting a client’s safety by preventing harm is nonmaleficence. This principle is foundational in health care and social services, as it mandates professionals to avoid actions that could cause harm to clients. Nonmaleficence emphasizes the obligation of care managers and healthcare providers to consider the risks of harm associated with their interventions and to prioritize the client's well-being. By adhering to this principle, professionals ensure that their practices do not inadvertently lead to physical, emotional, or psychological harm to those they serve. In contrast, beneficence focuses on actively contributing to the well-being of the client, while fidelity pertains to maintaining trust and keeping promises with clients. Justice revolves around fairness and equality in the distribution of care and resources. While all these principles are important in ethical decision-making, nonmaleficence specifically addresses the crucial aspect of preventing harm, making it the most relevant answer in this context.