Which of the following is NOT one of the main ethical principles in nursing?

In the context of nursing ethics, the main ethical principles include beneficence, justice, and autonomy. Each of these principles plays a critical role in guiding nursing practice and decision-making.

Beneficence refers to the commitment to promote good and do what is best for patients. It emphasizes the importance of taking actions that benefit patient health and well-being.

Justice involves fairness and equality in the distribution of resources and treatments. It concerns itself with ensuring that patients receive fair access to healthcare, regardless of their background or personal characteristics.

Autonomy recognizes the right of individuals to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare. It respects patients’ rights to inform consent and to be involved in their care choices, honoring their personal values and preferences.

Indifference, on the other hand, is not considered an ethical principle in nursing. It suggests a lack of concern or interest, which directly contradicts the fundamental values of nursing that prioritize caring for patients and advocating for their needs. In nursing practice, displaying indifference towards patients' care would undermine the effectiveness of nursing and violate ethical obligations towards providing compassionate and competent care. Therefore, it is not recognized as one of the main ethical principles in nursing.