Which action involving medication demonstrates the ethical principle of beneficence?

The correct response highlights the principle of beneficence, which refers to the ethical obligation to act in the best interests of the patient and promote their well-being. Administering an antianginal medication to a person experiencing chest pain directly addresses the immediate health crisis and aims to alleviate the patient's suffering by improving their cardiac function. This action not only has the potential to relieve pain but also to prevent more serious complications, thereby embodying the essence of beneficence.

The other actions, while important in their own right, do not directly reflect the primary focus on promoting the patient's immediate health and well-being. Monitoring vital signs, for example, is crucial for assessing a patient's condition but serves more as a measure of safety in response to treatment rather than a direct intervention. Providing education about medication side effects is beneficial for informed consent and patient autonomy but does not immediately address the patient’s current health crisis. Assisting a patient with mobility is a supportive action that promotes patient independence and comfort but is not a direct intervention aimed at resolving a specific medical issue like the chest pain being experienced.