A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for surgical repair of a femur fracture and has a prescription for lorazepam preoperatively. Which of the following statements made by the client should indicate to the nurse that the medication has been effective?

A) Justice:
The principle of justice refers to the fair and equitable distribution of resources and the fair treatment of individuals. While it is an important ethical principle in healthcare, it does not specifically address the concept of avoiding harm to the client.

B) Fidelity:
Fidelity, also known as loyalty or faithfulness, relates to the obligation of healthcare professionals to be faithful to the commitments and promises they make to their clients. While fidelity is important for building trust and maintaining professional relationships, it does not directly address the concept of avoiding harm.

C) Non-maleficence:
Non-maleficence is the ethical principle that refers to the duty to do no harm. It emphasizes the obligation to protect clients from harm by ensuring that no unnecessary or unjustified harm is inflicted. In the context of healthcare, non-maleficence guides healthcare professionals to prioritize the safety and well-being of their clients, avoiding actions or interventions that may cause harm. This is the correct choice.

D) Beneficence:
Beneficence is the ethical principle that emphasizes the duty to do good and promote the well-being of others. While it is related to the concept of providing positive benefits to clients, it does not specifically focus on the avoidance of harm.

(A) Increased bowel sounds
At the end of life, decreased bowel sounds or even absent bowel sounds are more common due to reduced gastrointestinal activity as the body begins to shut down. Increased bowel sounds are not typically expected.

(B) Hypertension
Hypertension is not typically expected at the end of life. Instead, hypotension (low blood pressure) is more common as the heart and other systems begin to fail.

(C) Moist mucous membranes
At the end of life, mucous membranes are often dry due to decreased fluid intake and systemic dehydration. Moist mucous membranes would not be an expected finding.

(D) Mottled skin
Mottled skin is a common and expected finding at the end of life. It occurs as circulation diminishes and the skin takes on a blotchy, purplish appearance, typically starting in the extremities and moving centrally. This is a sign that the body is shutting down and approaching death.