What ethical principle is demonstrated when a nurse admits to administering the wrong medication?

The ethical principle demonstrated when a nurse admits to administering the wrong medication is accountability. This principle refers to the responsibility that healthcare professionals have for their actions and the ethical obligation to be transparent about mistakes. In this situation, the nurse's admission reflects integrity and a commitment to patient safety and quality care. By acknowledging the error, the nurse takes ownership of the action, reinforcing the trust that patients and the healthcare team place in her.

When a healthcare professional is accountable, it promotes a culture where errors can be addressed openly, which is essential for learning and improving practice. Accountability encourages others in the healthcare environment to also take responsibility, thereby enhancing overall safety and care standards. This approach aligns with the ethical duty to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and are informed about their treatment.

The other principles mentioned, while important in healthcare ethics, do not specifically relate to the admission of error in this context. For instance, autonomy pertains to respecting a patient's right to make informed decisions, justice involves fairness in the distribution of care, and confidentiality focuses on protecting patient information. None of these principles capture the essence of taking responsibility for one's actions in the way that accountability does.