A nurse is assisting with teaching a class on ethical principles. The nurse should include that protecting a client's safety by not causing harm refers to which of the following ethical principles?

Explanation:

A. It is not permissible because the provider should disclose laboratory results or findings to a client.

This statement is not accurate in this context. While it is true that healthcare providers are responsible for disclosing test results to clients, this responsibility is typically limited to the provider-patient relationship, not to family members of healthcare workers.

B. It is not permissible because there is no nurse-client relationship between the sibling and nurse.

This is the correct choice. In healthcare ethics and legal standards, privacy and confidentiality are essential. The nurse has a duty to maintain the confidentiality of patient information, and this duty extends to family members of patients. Since there is no official nurse-client relationship between the nurse and her sibling, accessing the sibling's diagnostic test results would violate the privacy and confidentiality rights of the sibling.

C. It is permissible because the sibling has paid for the service.

Payment for services does not override the principles of confidentiality and privacy in healthcare. Even if the sibling has paid for the service, it does not grant the nurse permission to access the sibling's medical information without proper authorization.

D. It is permissible because the client's sibling made the request.

The fact that the sibling made the request does not automatically make it permissible for the nurse to access the diagnostic test results. Confidentiality and privacy considerations are paramount in healthcare, and access to patient information is typically restricted to authorized individuals involved in the patient's care.

Explanation:

A. "Delegate tasks such as vital signs regardless of the client's condition."

This statement is incorrect because delegation should be based on the complexity of the task, the client's condition and stability, the competence of the delegatee, and other factors. Vital signs are critical assessments that often require the direct involvement of a licensed nurse, especially when there are changes in the client's condition or if the client is unstable.

B. "Delegate simple tasks prior to evaluating the client's condition."

This statement is incorrect because delegation should not occur based solely on the simplicity of the task. Instead, the nurse should evaluate the client's condition first, assess the complexity of care required, and then delegate tasks accordingly. The client's needs, stability, and safety should guide the delegation process.

C. "Observe delegated tasks directly during task performance."

While direct observation of delegated tasks is important, it may not always be feasible or necessary for every task. Nurses should use their judgment to determine the level of supervision required based on factors such as the complexity of the task, the delegatee's experience and competence, and the client's condition. Direct observation may be necessary for more complex or critical tasks, but for routine and low-risk tasks, periodic checks and effective communication with the delegatee can suffice.

D. "Delegated tasks require follow-up to ensure compliance."

This statement is correct. Follow-up is essential to ensure that delegated tasks were performed correctly, safely, and in accordance with the client's care plan. It allows the nurse to verify task completion, assess the client's response if applicable, address any issues or concerns that arise, and provide feedback and guidance to the delegatee. Follow-up also helps maintain accountability and quality of care.