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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Holding the irrigation solution bottle 5 cm (2 in) above the sterile container is incorrect because the solution should be poured into a sterile container without contaminating the sterile field. The nurse should pour the solution from a height that avoids splashing and contamination.
B. Opening the outer wrapper of the sterile package toward her body is incorrect. The outer wrapper of a sterile package should be opened away from the body to avoid contamination of the sterile field.
C. Placing the irrigation solution bottle cap on the sterile field is incorrect. The cap should not be placed on the sterile field, as it may introduce contaminants.
D. Placing sterile objects at least 2.5 cm (1 in) from the edge of the sterile field is correct. This practice maintains the sterility of the field by preventing contamination from external sources.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Client-stated, "I lost my balance and fell when I got out of bed to go to the bathroom." This is the correct choice. The nurse should document the client's own account of the event in the medical record. It is important to accurately record the client's statement, as documentation should reflect the facts and avoid interpretation or assumptions.
B. "An incident report has been completed and sent to risk management." This statement should not be included in the client's medical record. Incident reports are separate from clinical documentation and are not part of the patient's permanent medical record.
C. "The client fell because the assistive personnel did not place nonskid slippers on the client." This statement makes an assumption about the cause of the fall and includes blame, which is inappropriate for medical documentation. Documentation should focus on objective observations and the client's statement, not assigning fault.
D. "The client does not appear to have any injuries resulting from the fall." While the nurse may assess the client for injuries, this statement should not be included unless it is confirmed and part of a thorough, objective assessment. It’s important to document specific findings (e.g., "No visible injuries noted").
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