A nurse is asked to cover a colleague's shift but already has prior commitments outside of work.

What action should the nurse take to demonstrate professionalism?

Seek guidance from the nursing manager regarding the acceptance of gifts.

Maintaining professionalism and ethical boundaries involves navigating situations where gifts are offered. It is important for nurses to follow institutional policies and guidelines regarding accepting gifts from patients. Seeking guidance from the nursing manager ensures that the nurse makes an informed decision and upholds professional standards.

• Option a (accepting the gift and displaying it) may create the perception of favoritism or bias and may violate institutional policies regarding the acceptance of gifts.

• Option b (politely declining the gift) is appropriate if it aligns with institutional policies. However, seeking guidance from the nursing manager is still advisable to ensure compliance.

• Option c (accepting the gift and sharing it with colleagues) may compromise professionalism and ethical boundaries, as it can create an appearance of impropriety or favoritism.

Refuse to perform the procedure and inform the charge nurse.

Demonstrating professionalism involves recognizing one's limits and providing safe and competent care. If a nurse is asked to perform a procedure without proper training, it is essential to refuse and communicate this to the charge nurse. Patient safety is paramount, and performing a procedure without proper training can put patients at risk.

• Option b (proceeding with the procedure while observing) is unsafe and unprofessional. It does not address the lack of proper training and can compromise patient safety.

• Option c (seeking guidance and training) is a crucial step in demonstrating professionalism. However, it should be done before attempting the procedure, not during the procedure itself.

• Option d (documenting the procedure as completed without performing it) is unethical, unprofessional, and illegal. It can result in serious consequences and jeopardize patient safety.