What ethical principle is the nurse demonstrating by offering to break a potassium supplement pill into smaller pieces?

The nurse's action of offering to break a potassium supplement pill into smaller pieces reflects the ethical principle of beneficence. This principle involves acting in the best interest of the patient by promoting their well-being and facilitating comfort in their care. By breaking the pill into smaller pieces, the nurse is likely addressing a concern the patient has about swallowing larger pills, thereby enhancing the patient's ability to adhere to their medication regimen.

Beneficence emphasizes the importance of the nurse's role in actively working to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. In this scenario, the nurse takes a proactive step to ensure the medication is more manageable for the patient, which supports the patient’s health and promotes positive therapeutic relationships.

In contrast, autonomy pertains to the patient’s right to make informed decisions about their own care, justice relates to fairness in healthcare distribution, and nonmaleficence focuses on avoiding harm to the patient. While these principles are also vital in nursing practice, the specific action of offering to alter the medication aligns most closely with the concept of beneficence.