A nurse is caring for a client who is starting treatment for substance use disorder. Which of the following actions indicates the nurse is practicing the ethical principle of nonmaleficence?
Withholding a prescribed medication that is causing adverse effects for the client
Educating the client about legal rights concerning treatment
Providing the client with quality care regardless of ability to pay for treatment
Being truthful with the client about the manifestations of withdrawal.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Withholding a prescribed medication that is causing adverse effects for the client
The principle of nonmaleficence, often summarized as "do no harm," emphasizes the nurse's duty to prevent harm and to remove existing harm. If a medication prescribed to a client is causing adverse effects, the nurse should withhold the medication to prevent harm to the client.
B. Educating the client about legal rights concerning treatment
Educating the client about their legal rights falls under providing information and ensuring the client's autonomy but does not directly address the principle of non-maleficence.
C. Providing the client with quality care regardless of ability to pay for treatment
Providing quality care regardless of the client's ability to pay is an ethical practice, but it aligns more with the principles of justice and beneficence rather than nonmaleficence.
D. Being truthful with the client about the manifestations of withdrawal
Being truthful and providing accurate information to the client about withdrawal symptoms is crucial, but it doesn't directly address the principle of nonmaleficence.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Did you experience any childhood trauma?"
Childhood trauma, such as abuse or neglect, can contribute to various mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety disorders. While trauma can impact a person's mental health, it does not directly assess the risk for alcohol use disorder.
B. "Are you the result of a twin birth?"
Being a twin or the result of multiple births does not inherently indicate a risk for alcohol use disorder. This question is related to an individual's birth status and has no direct connection to the assessment of alcohol-related issues.
C. "Have you ever purposefully lost a job?"
This is the correct choice. Purposefully losing a job might indicate behavioral issues related to alcohol misuse or impairment. Individuals with alcohol use disorder may engage in behaviors that lead to job loss, such as absenteeism, poor performance, or conflict at the workplace due to alcohol consumption.
D. "Did your parent have a viral infection while pregnant with you?"
Prenatal viral infections can potentially affect fetal development and lead to certain health conditions. However, this question is not directly related to the risk of alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder is primarily influenced by environmental factors, genetic predisposition, and individual behaviors related to alcohol consumption. Prenatal viral infections are not a typical indicator of alcohol-related concerns.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Why did you feel like giving away your belongings?"
This response is empathetic and invites the client to explore their feelings and motivations. It shows understanding and can help the nurse comprehend the client's emotional state better.
B. "You should find a support group to attend."
This response suggests a proactive step to seek support, which can be helpful. However, it might be premature in this context as the nurse hasn't fully assessed the client's situation yet. It's important to understand the client's feelings and circumstances before recommending specific interventions.
C. "Everyone feels a little down sometimes."
This response minimizes the client's feelings and can be invalidating. It doesn't acknowledge the seriousness of the client's statement, which might discourage them from opening up further.
D. "Can you tell me how you have been feeling lately?"
As previously explained, this response is empathetic and open-ended, encouraging the client to share their emotions and thoughts. It's a good starting point for a therapeutic conversation, allowing the nurse to assess the client's current mental state.
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