A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has a terminal illness and is ventilator dependent. The client is alert and oriented and he wants to discontinue use of the ventilator. The nurse should be aware that continued treatment against the client’s wishes is a violation of which of the following ethical principles?
Justice
Veracity
Fidelity
Autonomy
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Justice. This answer is incorrect because justice is the ethical principle that ensures fair and equal treatment for all clients, regardless of their personal or social characteristics. Justice does not apply to this situation, as the client is not being discriminated against or denied any resources.
Choice B reason: Veracity. This answer is incorrect because veracity is the ethical principle that requires honesty and truthfulness from the provider and the nurse in providing information and education to the client. Veracity does not apply to this situation, as the client is not being deceived or misled about their condition or treatment options.
Choice C reason: Fidelity. This answer is incorrect because fidelity is the ethical principle that obligates the provider and the nurse to be faithful and loyal to the client and to honor their commitments and promises. Fidelity does not apply to this situation, as the client is not being abandoned or betrayed by the provider or the nurse.
Choice D reason: Autonomy. This answer is correct because autonomy is the ethical principle that respects the client's right to make their own decisions about their health care, even if they are different from the provider's or the nurse's recommendations. Autonomy applies to this situation, as the client is expressing their preference to discontinue the ventilator, which is a life sustaining treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: "Use simple, childlike statements when speaking." This response is not appropriate because it can be demeaning and disrespectful to the client. The client is an adult who knows what they want to say, but they have difficulty saying it. Using simple statements is helpful, but they should not be childlike or patronizing.
Choice B reason: "Use a higher pitched tone of voice when speaking." This response is not appropriate because it can be irritating and confusing to the client. The client may have normal hearing, or they may have hearing loss due to age or stroke. Using a higher pitched tone of voice can make the speech harder to understand and may imply that the client is not intelligent.
Choice C reason: "Incorporate nonverbal cues in the conversation." This response is appropriate because nonverbal cues, such as gestures, facial expressions, and drawings, can help the client understand and express themselves better. Nonverbal cues can also reduce frustration and anxiety for both the client and the family member.
Choice D reason: "Ask multiple choice questions as part of the conversation." This response is not appropriate because it can be overwhelming and stressful for the client. Multiple choice questions can be hard to process and remember for someone with aphasia. It is better to ask yes or no questions, or to provide options with visual cues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: The client is unable to make vocal sounds. This conclusion is not based on the GCS score of 5 for best verbal response, which indicates that the client is oriented and converses normally. The client may have other reasons for being unable to make vocal sounds, such as intubation or injury to the vocal cords.
Choice B reason: The client opens his eyes when spoken to. This conclusion is based on the GCS score of 3 for eye opening, which indicates that the client responds to verbal stimuli. This is the highest level of eye opening response on the GCS.
Choice C reason: The client is unconscious. This conclusion is not based on the GCS score of 13 (3+5+5), which indicates that the client has a mild level of impaired consciousness. The client is not unconscious, but may have reduced awareness or attention.
Choice D reason: The client can follow simple motor commands. This conclusion is not based on the GCS score of 5 for best motor response, which indicates that the client localizes pain. This means that the client moves their limbs away from a painful stimulus, but does not necessarily follow commands.
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