What principle refers to the duty to promote fair treatment and allocation of resources?

The principle of justice is fundamentally concerned with fairness and equitable treatment in the distribution of resources and opportunities. This principle emphasizes that individuals should be treated equally and justly, without favoritism or discrimination. In a healthcare context, justice relates to ensuring that all patients have access to the necessary care and resources they require, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Justice also encompasses broader issues such as the fair allocation of limited healthcare resources, ensuring that marginalized or underserved populations receive appropriate attention and care. By adhering to the principle of justice, nurses and healthcare providers can work to eliminate disparities and promote an equitable system, fostering trust and support within the healthcare environment.

In contrast, the other principles have different focuses. Beneficence is about promoting the well-being of individuals and taking actions that benefit them, while fidelity refers to the obligation to be faithful to commitments and maintain trust with patients. Empathy involves understanding and being sensitive to the feelings and experiences of others, which is essential for building therapeutic relationships but does not directly address resource allocation and fairness in treatment.