Which principle prohibits harm in psychiatric nursing?

The principle that explicitly prohibits harm in psychiatric nursing is non-maleficence. This ethical guideline emphasizes the nurse's obligation to avoid causing harm to patients. In psychiatric care, this means being vigilant about the interventions and treatments provided, ensuring that they do not result in physical or psychological harm. This encompasses protective measures, proper assessments, and interventions that prioritize the well-being of the patient.

Non-maleficence is a core tenet of nursing ethics, guiding nurses to consider the potential risks and unintended consequences of their actions. For instance, when planning care for patients with mental health issues, understanding and mitigating risks associated with treatment decisions, such as the side effects of medications or the impact of certain therapeutic techniques, is crucial to upholding this principle.

The other principles, justice, beneficence, and autonomy, have their own important roles but do not specifically focus on the prohibition of harm. Justice relates to fairness and equal treatment, beneficence requires the promotion of good and well-being, and autonomy emphasizes respecting a patient's right to make their own decisions. While all these principles are vital in psychiatric nursing, non-maleficence directly addresses the duty to refrain from causing harm.