Final answer:
The ethical principle violated when a nurse administers the wrong dose of medication and blames it on a co-worker is primarily the principle of nonmaleficence, as it involves causing harm and not taking responsibility for the error.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the nurse administers the wrong dose of medication and then blames the mistake on a co-worker, the ethical principle that is violated is the principle of nonmaleficence. This principle emphasizes the need to not cause harm to others. By administering the wrong dosage, the nurse's actions deviate from this principle as they may cause unnecessary harm to the patient. Furthermore, shifting blame to a co-worker instead of taking responsibility undermines trust and accountability in the healthcare environment.
The principle of beneficence is also relevant, as this ethical tenet directs healthcare professionals to act in ways that benefit patients. A correct medication dosage is part of the expected standard of care aimed at benefiting the patient. Alongside these principles, the principle of autonomy grants patients the right to be informed about their care and to make decisions based on that information, a process which is compromised when a healthcare provider is not truthful about their actions.