Which principle involves the moral obligation to prevent harm in healthcare?

The principle that involves the moral obligation to prevent harm in healthcare is nonmaleficence. This principle is foundational in medical ethics and emphasizes the importance of not causing harm to patients. It underlines the responsibility of healthcare providers to avoid actions that could potentially lead to injury or suffering, ensuring that the well-being of the patient is prioritized.

Specifically, nonmaleficence serves as a guiding ethical standard, compelling practitioners to consider not only the benefits of their interventions but also the potential risks and negative outcomes. It aligns closely with the Hippocratic Oath, which includes the commitment to "do no harm."

While beneficence, another significant principle, focuses on taking positive actions to promote the well-being of the patient, it does not specifically address the avoidance of harm as directly as nonmaleficence does. Justice pertains to fairness in medical care and resource allocation, and autonomy concerns the right of patients to make their own informed decisions regarding their care. Therefore, nonmaleficence most accurately captures the moral duty to prevent harm in healthcare settings.