A nurse administers an incorrect medication to a client. Following an assessment of the client, the nurse determines that the client has not experienced any adverse effects as a result of the medication. The nurse does not complete an incident report because no harm came to the client. Which of the following ethical principles did the nurse violate?

Choice A rationale:

Restricting the client's fluid intake to less than 2 L/day is not an appropriate intervention for a client with COPD. Adequate hydration is important to help thin mucus secretions and improve respiratory function. Restricting fluids can lead to thicker mucus and exacerbate breathing difficulties.

Choice B rationale:

Instructing the client to use pursed-lip breathing is a beneficial intervention for someone with COPD. Pursed-lip breathing helps improve breathing efficiency by promoting better air exchange and preventing air trapping, which is common in COPD. It helps slow down breathing and increases oxygen saturation.

Choice C rationale:

Having the client use the early-morning hours for exercise and activity might not be the best choice. Morning hours can be when clients with COPD experience more respiratory symptoms. It's advisable to schedule activities during times when the client feels more comfortable and less breathless.

Choice D rationale:

Providing the client with a low-protein diet is not a relevant intervention for COPD management. COPD primarily affects the lungs and respiratory system, and a low-protein diet is not a standard part of its management. Nutritional recommendations for COPD typically focus on maintaining a balanced diet to support overall health.

Choice A rationale:

Drowsiness alone may not be a reliable indicator of pain, as it can result from various factors such as medications or the postoperative recovery process. While pain might cause drowsiness in some cases, it is not a definitive nonverbal sign of pain.

Choice B rationale:

Grimacing is a nonverbal behavior that often indicates pain or discomfort. It involves facial expressions of pain, such as frowning or wincing. Grimacing is a significant indicator that the nurse should consider in assessing the client's pain level.

Choice C rationale:

Screaming is a more overt expression of pain and discomfort. However, it is less common in a postoperative setting and might also be associated with anxiety or other emotional states. While it can indicate pain, it's not as reliable a marker as grimacing, moaning, or restlessness.

Choice D rationale:

Moaning is a nonverbal behavior that can signal pain in a postoperative client. It's an audible expression of discomfort and should be considered as a potential indication of pain.

Choice E rationale:

Restlessness can be an indication of pain as well. The client may shift positions frequently or exhibit signs of agitation in response to pain. However, restlessness can also have other causes, such as anxiety or medication effects.