A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and states, "I wish to discontinue my treatment.”. The nurse responds by saying, "You have a right to refuse treatment.”. This response demonstrates which of the following ethical principles?
Autonomy.
Fidelity.
Justice.
Beneficence.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Autonomy refers to the client’s right to make informed decisions about their care and treatment without external coercion. Acknowledging the client’s decision to discontinue treatment supports this principle, promoting respect for individual rights and preferences.
Choice B rationale
Fidelity involves maintaining trust and honoring commitments, such as upholding professional promises to deliver care. While important, it does not directly address the client’s right to refuse treatment in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
Justice pertains to fairness and equitable distribution of resources and care. This principle focuses on broader societal and ethical considerations rather than the individual’s decision-making rights.
Choice D rationale
Beneficence is the principle of acting in the best interest of the client, promoting their well-being. While relevant, it does not specifically address respecting the client’s right to refuse treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing clipboards with client information facing down prevents unauthorized viewing, thereby adhering to confidentiality laws such as HIPAA. It reduces the likelihood of accidental breaches of sensitive information when in public or shared spaces.
Choice B rationale
Posting intake and output on message boards breaches confidentiality as it exposes personal health information to anyone in the room. This violates privacy regulations like HIPAA and compromises client trust in the healthcare system.
Choice C rationale
Faxing confidential information without a cover sheet increases the risk of unauthorized access if the fax is received by unintended parties. A cover sheet is a standard practice to safeguard client data and ensure legal compliance.
Choice D rationale
Disposing of client information in the trash without proper shredding allows potential retrieval and misuse of sensitive data. It is essential to follow facility protocols for secure disposal, like using designated shredders for healthcare documents.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Stopping feeding for a client who becomes short of breath demonstrates clinical judgment rather than fidelity. Fidelity specifically involves loyalty and adherence to commitments made to the client, which is not evidenced in this action.
Choice B rationale
Telling a client she will return with a medication and doing so exemplifies fidelity. It demonstrates the nurse's reliability and dedication to fulfilling promises or commitments made to the client, building trust and maintaining professional integrity.
Choice C rationale
Dividing time and care evenly between clients highlights fairness rather than fidelity. While fairness ensures equal treatment, fidelity focuses on maintaining trust and honoring specific promises or commitments made to individuals.
Choice D rationale
Administering a pain medication to a client before ambulation reflects prioritization of care and pain management. However, it does not illustrate fidelity, which involves fulfilling promises or responsibilities that the nurse has explicitly committed to.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.