Whenever a doctor cannot do good, he must be kept from…
“Whenever a doctor cannot do good, he must be kept from doing harm.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Physicians must avoid causing harm when they cannot help.
In simple terms: Do no harm when help is impossible.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize safety over ineffective treatment.
Themes
ethics
medicine
responsibility
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
ethical
practical
When to use this quote
- emergency care
- experimental treatments
- palliative care
Key Concepts
non‑maleficence
clinical decision‑making
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to with a harmful treatment?
- How do you balance risk and benefit?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes inaction may cause greater harm.