50. At her first prenatal visit for her second pregnancy, Rajneesh tells her doctor that after her last pregnancy she experienced severe postpartum depression and anxiety and that she has been taking medication since to stabilize her emotions. Rajneesh and her OBGYN discuss the benefits versus the risks of Rajneesh continuing taking this medication while she is pregnant this time around. What principle of ethics is Rajneesh's doctor employing in this scenario?

Question

A. justice

B. beneficence

C. nonmaleficence

D. autonomy

Answer 1

In this scenario, Rajneesh's doctor is primarily employing the principle of beneficence. Beneficence refers to the ethical obligation to act in the best interest of the patient by promoting their well-being and taking positive steps to help them. In discussing the benefits versus the risks of continuing medication during her pregnancy, the doctor is focusing on how to best support Rajneesh's health and well-being for both her and her developing baby.

While other principles, such as nonmaleficence (do no harm) and autonomy (respecting the patient's right to make informed decisions), are also relevant, the central focus of this interaction is on providing care that benefits Rajneesh and her pregnancy, aligning it most closely with beneficence.

Thus, the answer is:

B. beneficence