Focuses on the day-to-day operations of the unit.

The nurse should have the AP perform the task of feeding a school-age client who has burns on both upper extremities first. This task is a high priority because it addresses the client's immediate need for nutrition and hydration. The client's burns may make it difficult for them to feed themselves, so the assistance of the AP is necessary to ensure that the client receives adequate nourishment.

The other tasks are also important, but they are not the highest priority in this situation. Collecting a stool sample for ova and parasites from a toddler [b] and bathing an adolescent client who is disabled [c] are routine tasks that can be performed as time permits. Ambulating a preschooler who is postoperative to the playroom [d] is also important for promoting mobility and recovery, but it is not as urgent as addressing the immediate need for nutrition and hydration.

Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle of doing no harm. It requires healthcare providers to avoid causing harm to their patients and to take steps to prevent harm from occurring.

The other options are also important ethical principles in healthcare, but they do not specifically refer to doing no harm. Justice [a] refers to the fair distribution of benefits and burdens in society. Beneficence [c] refers to the obligation to do good and promote the well-being of others. Veracity [d] refers to the obligation, to tell the truth and not deceive others.