Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

According to ethical principles, what is prioritized when making health-related decisions?

1. Profitability

2. Common good over individual benefit

3. Compliance with regulations

4. Promotion of autonomy

The correct answer is: Common good over individual benefit

Prioritizing the common good over individual benefit reflects a fundamental ethical principle known as utilitarianism. This principle emphasizes the importance of actions that produce the greatest overall benefit for the majority rather than focusing solely on individual gains. When making health-related decisions, it is crucial to consider how choices impact the entire community, especially in health care settings where resources may be limited. This approach encourages decision-makers to evaluate the broader implications of their actions, striving for outcomes that enhance public health and wellbeing. For instance, during public health initiatives, choices that serve the welfare of the community, such as vaccination programs or resource allocations during a crisis, are made with the common good in mind, even if they may not align perfectly with the preferences of each individual involved. In contrast, emphasizing profitability might lead to decisions that favor financial gains over patient wellbeing, which could compromise ethical standards of care. Compliance with regulations, while important, does not inherently prioritize ethical considerations of the common good. Promoting autonomy is vital for respect and personal freedom, but it must be balanced with the effects that individual decisions can have on collective health outcomes. In essence, prioritizing the common good fosters an ethical approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of health decisions and their societal impact.