What action demonstrates the ethical principle of nonmaleficence by a staff nurse who has influenza?

The action that demonstrates the ethical principle of nonmaleficence is declining to work while ill. Nonmaleficence refers to the obligation to avoid causing harm to others. When a nurse has influenza, attending work not only jeopardizes their own health but also poses a risk of transmitting the virus to patients and colleagues. By choosing to stay home, the nurse prioritizes the health and safety of both patients and coworkers, thus upholding the ethical responsibility to do no harm.

In contrast, coming to work to help out during a staffing shortage does not align with this principle since it can lead to potentially harmful situations for patients and staff alike, as the nurse would be working while contagious. Delegating responsibilities to coworkers could potentially place an undue burden on them and does not address the ethical implications of being ill while providing care. Informing the manager of their condition but still reporting for duty creates a situation where the nurse could inadvertently compromise patient safety and health, counteracting the very essence of nonmaleficence.