Final answer:
The nurse practicing with the intent to do the greatest good for the greatest number is applying the ethical principle of utilitarianism, which aims to maximize happiness or satisfaction for the most people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse in the scenario is applying the ethical principle of utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is a philosophy that suggests the best action maximizes utility, usually defined as that which produces the greatest well-being of the greatest number of people. This concept is central to the ethical theory proposed by philosophers Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill. Under utilitarianism, the nurse's actions are guided by the decision that will result in the highest level of overall happiness or satisfaction amongst patients.
The other options listed do not directly pertain to the principle of maximizing good for the most people. Distributive justice refers to fair distribution of society's resources, but without the explicit goal of maximizing overall happiness. Social justice is focused on equitable distribution of opportunities and rights, and health disparities are differences in health outcomes across different population groups.