Non-maleficence in more detail

Definition:

Non-maleficence means "do no harm." This principle emphasises avoiding actions or treatments that may cause unnecessary harm or suffering to patients.

Why Non-Maleficence Matters:

• It helps prevent harm from poorly considered or unnecessary interventions.
• It ensures patient safety and reduces risks in healthcare.

Key Points to Understand:

• Harm Minimisation:
  Some treatments, while necessary, have risks. Always aim to minimise harm (e.g., managing side effects of chemotherapy).
• Weighing Risks vs Benefits:
  Harm may be unavoidable in some treatments, but it should never outweigh the potential benefits.
• Ethical Duty to Avoid Harm:
  Non-maleficence also applies to preventing emotional or psychological harm (e.g., avoiding insensitive communication).

Example 1: Avoiding Harmful Interventions
Scenario: A patient with mild back pain asks for surgery. However, physiotherapy is likely to be more effective and less risky.

• Application of Non-Maleficence: Recommend physiotherapy first, as surgery could cause unnecessary harm for a minor condition.
• Outcome: Harm is avoided by choosing a less invasive treatment.

Example 2: Administering Pain Relief
Scenario: A patient with advanced cancer experiences severe pain but fears taking opioids due to addiction concerns.

• Application of Non-Maleficence: Reassure the patient and prescribe pain relief while closely monitoring for side effects.
• Outcome: You minimise suffering while addressing their concerns.