Which principle refers to fairness in care delivery and use of resources?

• A. Justice.
• B. Autonomy.
• C. Beneficence.
• D. Veracity.

Answer: (A)

The principle being tested is justice, which focuses on fairness in how care is delivered and how resources are allocated. In nursing, justice means treating all patients equitably, ensuring access to standard care regardless of background, and applying fair, unbiased criteria when resources are limited (such as triage decisions or bed and medication allocation). It’s about removing disparities and making sure policies and practices don’t favor one group over another. Autonomy centers on patient self-determination, beneficence on acting in the patient’s best interest, and veracity on truthful communication; these differ in focus from the fair distribution emphasis of justice.