Which term describes the ethical obligation to act in the best interest of the patient?

The term that encapsulates the ethical obligation to act in the best interest of the patient is beneficence. This principle underlines the healthcare provider's duty to promote good and contribute to the wellbeing of their patients. It emphasizes taking actions that further the patient's health and welfare, advocating for interventions, and making clinical decisions that benefit the patient.

While autonomy emphasizes respecting a patient's right to make their own decisions about their care, beneficence focuses on the provider's responsibility to improve the patient's condition. Malpractice refers to professional negligence, typically involving a failure to meet the standard of care, which does not directly relate to the ethical obligation to prioritize patient welfare. Justice pertains to fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources and does not specifically address the obligation to act in the patient's best interest. Therefore, beneficence is the principle that directly aligns with the ethical duty to prioritize the health and wellbeing of patients.