A nurse is caring for a client who has a mental illness.
Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates the ethical concept of autonomy?
Supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications.
Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors.
Making sure the client understands expectations for client participation.
Encouraging client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications directly aligns with the ethical principle of autonomy. Autonomy, in the context of healthcare, grants individuals the right to make informed decisions about their own bodies and treatment plans, even if those decisions go against medical advice. It's crucial to respect a client's autonomy, even when they have a mental illness, as long as they have the capacity to make informed decisions. Key points to elaborate on:
Capacity to make informed decisions: Assess if the client can understand the risks and benefits of refusing medication, as well as the potential consequences of their decision.
Informed consent: Ensure the client has received comprehensive information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits, enabling them to make an informed choice.
Balancing autonomy with beneficence: While autonomy is paramount, nurses also have a duty of beneficence, which means acting in the client's best interests. Engaging in open discussions about the rationale for medication, exploring potential concerns, and offering alternative treatment options can help balance autonomy with beneficence.
Mental illness and decision-making: Acknowledge that mental illness can sometimes impact decision-making abilities. However, this does not automatically negate a client's right to autonomy. Careful assessment and ongoing communication are essential.
Advocacy: Nurses can play a vital role in advocating for clients' autonomy, ensuring their voices are heard and their wishes respected within the healthcare system.
I'll continue with rationales for other choices in the following responses, aiming for approximately 1000 words in total, as instructed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["15"]
Explanation
Question: How many mL should the nurse administer per dose?
Step 1: 150 mg ÷ 50 mg
Step 2: 3 × 5 mL
Answer: 15 mL per dose.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Instructing the client on relaxation techniques for use when anxiety level increases is a beneficial intervention for a client with OCD. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse needs to understand the client’s condition, including the triggers for their ritualistic behaviors, before they can effectively guide the client in managing their anxiety.
Choice B rationale: Discussing many alternative coping strategies with the client is an important part of OCD management. However, this should come after understanding the client’s condition and the triggers for their ritualistic behaviors. Without this understanding, the coping strategies suggested may not be effective or relevant.
Choice C rationale: Identifying precipitating factors for ritualistic behaviors is the first action the nurse should take. Understanding what triggers the client’s OCD behaviors is crucial in developing an effective care plan. This understanding allows the nurse to work with the client to develop strategies to manage their triggers and reduce the frequency and intensity of their OCD behaviors.
Choice D rationale: Providing a highly structured activity schedule for the client can be helpful in managing OCD. However, this should not be the first action. The nurse needs to first understand the client’s condition, including the triggers for their ritualistic behaviors. This understanding will allow the nurse to develop a schedule that takes into account the client’s triggers and incorporates effective coping strategies.
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