A nurse is caring for a post-op client.
The client states, “It really helps to take the medicine before I do my physical therapy.”. The nurse responds, “Taking your pain medication before physical therapy seems to help you complete the activities.”. The nurse is using which of the following communication techniques?

Choice A rationale
Maintaining confidentiality of patient information is crucial, but it falls under the principle of confidentiality, not fidelity.
Choice B rationale
Remaining loyal and faithful to one’s personal beliefs and values is important, but it is not the primary focus of fidelity in nursing practice.
Choice C rationale
Upholding professional obligations and commitments is the essence of fidelity in nursing. It involves being faithful to the promises made to patients and the profession, ensuring trust and integrity in nursing practice.
Choice D rationale
Ensuring equitable distribution of healthcare resources is related to the principle of justice, not fidelity.

Choice A rationale
Assault refers to the threat of harm or unwanted physical contact, not the actual administration of medication. In this case, the nurse’s action resulted in actual harm, which is more aligned with negligence.
Choice B rationale
Battery involves intentional physical contact without consent, such as forcibly administering medication. However, this scenario involves an error rather than intentional harm, making negligence a more appropriate term.
Choice C rationale
Negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. Administering the wrong medication is a clear example of negligence, as it demonstrates a failure to follow proper procedures and protocols.
Choice D rationale
Invasion of privacy involves the unauthorized disclosure of personal information, which is not relevant to the scenario of administering the wrong medication.