A charge nurse in a long-term care facility is discussing ethical theories with a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following statements should the charge nurse identify as an indication that a newly licensed nurse understands utilitarianism?
“I will consider what is going to benefit the most people when making decisions.”
"I will respect the decision of a client who has a chronic illness to stop treatment."
"I will place a higher emphasis on human dignity than on the needs of a group."
"I will withhold a terminal diagnosis from a client who has cancer."
The Correct Answer is A
A. “I will consider what is going to benefit the most people when making decisions.”: This is correct. Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that focuses on the greatest good for the greatest number of people. Decisions are made based on the outcomes that benefit the most individuals, even if they might not always align with individual preferences.
B. "I will respect the decision of a client who has a chronic illness to stop treatment.": This reflects the principle of autonomy, not utilitarianism. Autonomy focuses on respecting an individual's right to make their own decisions, rather than the greater good.
C. "I will place a higher emphasis on human dignity than on the needs of a group.": This statement leans more toward a deontological perspective, which prioritizes individual rights and dignity over collective benefits.
D. "I will withhold a terminal diagnosis from a client who has cancer.": This reflects a paternalistic approach, where decisions are made by healthcare providers for the patient, which is not a principle of utilitarianism. Utilitarianism would consider the benefits and harms of full disclosure to the patient, rather than withholding information.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "A nurse discusses a client's postoperative complications during shift report.": This is not a breach of confidentiality if the information is shared within the context of a healthcare team for the purpose of providing care. Confidentiality is maintained as long as the information is shared appropriately.
B. "A facility risk manager includes information from a client's medical record in a when report.": This is also not necessarily a breach of confidentiality if the report is used for quality improvement, risk management, or other institutional purposes where confidentiality protocols are followed.
C. "A nurse tells the chaplain that a client has a new diagnosis of cancer.": This is a breach of confidentiality. Information should only be shared with others involved in the patient's care or if the patient has given explicit consent. Discussing a client's diagnosis with a chaplain or anyone not directly involved in the care plan is an unauthorized disclosure.
D. "A social worker reads a client's chart as a follow-up to a requested consultation.": This is not a breach of confidentiality if the social worker is following established protocols for patient care and is authorized to access the client's medical records for consultation purposes.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Preferred bath time is incorrect. While important for comfort and care planning, the preferred bath time is not critical information for change-of-shift report unless directly relevant to immediate care.
B. Time of last pain medication is correct. Information about the last dose of pain medication is essential to assess the client’s current pain level and determine if another dose is required. It also helps to plan for ongoing pain management and monitor for signs of over-medication or under-medication.
C. Steps required for dressing change is incorrect. While it is important to know the steps for dressing changes, this would typically be included in the written care instructions, not necessarily as part of the verbal change-of-shift report.
D. Admission vital signs is incorrect. Admission vital signs are not typically necessary for change-of-shift report unless there has been a significant change in the client’s condition since admission. It is more important to focus on current assessments and interventions.
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