A nurse is collaborating with a risk management team about potential legal issues involving client care. The nurse should identify that which of the following situations is an example of negligence?
An assistive personnel prevents a client from leaving the facility.
An assistive personnel discusses client care in the facility cafeteria with visitors present.
A nurse administers a medication without first identifying the client.
A nurse begins a blood transfusion without obtaining consent from a client.
The Correct Answer is C
A. An assistive personnel prevents a client from leaving the facility:
This situation may raise ethical concerns related to patient autonomy and freedom of movement. However, it is not a clear example of negligence. Negligence is more directly related to the provision of care and the failure to meet the standard of care.
B. An assistive personnel discusses client care in the facility cafeteria with visitors present:
This situation involves a breach of confidentiality and may violate the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). However, it is not an example of negligence. Negligence typically involves a failure to provide appropriate care rather than a breach of privacy.
C. A nurse administers a medication without first identifying the client:
This is an example of negligence. Negligence refers to the failure to provide the standard of care that a reasonably prudent person would have provided under similar circumstances. In this case, administering medication without first identifying the client is a breach of the standard of care, and it can lead to serious consequences, including harm to the patient.
D. A nurse begins a blood transfusion without obtaining consent from a client:
This is an example of a legal issue related to lack of informed consent. While it raises ethical and legal concerns, it may not necessarily be considered negligence, which is more related to a failure in providing care up to the standard. However, it is still a serious violation of ethical and legal principles.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Prepare the client for surgery:
In emergency situations, if immediate intervention is required to save the client’s life or prevent significant harm, the principle of implied consent may apply. This means that if the client is unconscious and immediate treatment is necessary, healthcare providers may proceed with treatment under the assumption that the client would consent if able. However, this should be done in accordance with facility policies and legal guidelines.
B. Obtain consent from the surgeon:
The surgeon is not the appropriate person to obtain consent from in this situation. Informed consent should ideally come from the client or a legal surrogate decision-maker, depending on the circumstances. Surgeons are responsible for discussing the procedure with the patient or their authorized representative before surgery, but obtaining consent is not the nurse's role.
C. Contact the facility's ethics committee for guidance:
While the ethics committee may provide guidance in complex ethical situations, the immediate concern in this emergency situation is to address the client's life-threatening condition. The nurse should prioritize actions that ensure the client receives timely and necessary medical care.
D. Keep the client stable until a family member arrives to give consent:
While obtaining consent from a family member is ideal, waiting for consent can delay critical and time-sensitive interventions. In emergency situations, the priority is to provide necessary medical care promptly to stabilize the client. If there is no one available to give consent immediately, healthcare providers may proceed with necessary interventions to preserve life and limb.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "You need to understand that you have very little time left":
This response is blunt and may be emotionally distressing for the client. It is essential to communicate with sensitivity and respect the client's autonomy. This option does not explore the available treatment options, which is important in this situation.
B. "I will contact your provider to discuss your options":
This is the correct answer. It demonstrates the nurse's commitment to the client's wishes by taking proactive steps to explore treatment options. Involving the healthcare provider in the discussion allows for a more informed decision-making process and ensures that the client's preferences are considered in the overall care plan
C. "Enjoy the time you have and do the things you want to do":
This response may come across as dismissive and does not directly address the client's expressed desire for more treatment. It is important to acknowledge the client's wishes and explore available options before discussing end-of-life activities.
D. "Hospice care is the best thing for you at this time":
While hospice care is an important consideration for individuals with terminal illnesses, it may not align with the client's current preference for more treatment. Introducing hospice care at this point without discussing treatment options may be premature.
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.