In ethical practice, 'nonmaleficence' refers to:

Nonmaleficence is a principle in ethics that emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm to others. It is derived from the Latin phrase "primum non nocere," which means "first, do no harm." This principle is particularly significant in fields such as healthcare, psychology, and counseling, where professionals must prioritize their clients' safety and well-being above all.

In practice, nonmaleficence requires professionals to be vigilant and ensure that their actions do not inadvertently cause physical, emotional, or psychological harm to clients. This aligns with the ethical duty to protect clients from potential risks and to make decisions that minimize adverse effects while maximizing benefits.

Understanding nonmaleficence helps professionals navigate complex situations by making ethical choices that safeguard their clients' interests, thereby reinforcing trust and integrity in the professional-client relationship.