What ethical principle is demonstrated when a nurse notifies the provider of a medication error after incorrectly administering a dosage?

The correct answer for this scenario is veracity, which refers to truthfulness and the obligation to communicate honestly. When a nurse notifies the provider of a medication error, they are demonstrating a commitment to transparency and honesty in their professional practice. This act of disclosure reinforces the importance of accountability in nursing, ensuring that the healthcare team can address any potential harm that may have resulted from the medication error.

Veracity is crucial in maintaining trust with patients and colleagues, as it fosters an open environment where errors can be discussed and rectified. By being truthful about the error, the nurse helps to promote patient safety and enhance the quality of care.

The other ethical principles like autonomy, beneficence, and justice emphasize different aspects of patient care and ethical practice but do not specifically relate to the act of disclosing a medication error in this context. Autonomy focuses on respecting patients' rights to make informed decisions about their care. Beneficence involves acting in the best interest of the patient and promoting their well-being. Justice relates to fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources. These principles are important in a broader context, but in this scenario, it is veracity that is most prominently demonstrated by the nurse's action of reporting the error.