A nurse is reviewing legal principles associated with nursing practice.
Which of the following is an example of negligence?
Giving an intramuscular medication after a client refuses it.
Placing restraints on a client without notifying the provider.
Administering an incorrect dosage of a medication to a client.
Documenting a client's vital signs inaccurately.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Administering medication against a client's refusal constitutes battery, an intentional tort, as it involves touching a person without consent. This act violates the client's autonomy and right to self-determination, which are fundamental ethical principles in healthcare. Negligence, conversely, typically involves an unintentional breach of duty causing harm.
Choice B rationale
Applying restraints without a proper order and notification of the provider can be considered false imprisonment, an intentional tort, as it restricts a client's freedom of movement unlawfully. While potentially leading to harm, the core issue is the unauthorized deprivation of liberty, distinct from the unintentional failure to meet a standard of care characteristic of negligence.
Choice C rationale
Administering an incorrect medication dosage exemplifies negligence because it represents a breach of the nurse's duty to administer medications safely and accurately, according to established standards of care. This deviation from the expected standard directly contributes to a foreseeable risk of harm to the client, fulfilling the elements of duty, breach, causation, and damages inherent in a negligence claim.
Choice D rationale
Inaccurate documentation of vital signs, while a serious professional lapse, is not necessarily negligence unless it directly leads to client harm. Negligence requires a causal link between the breach of duty and an injury. Falsifying records can have other legal ramifications, such as fraud or professional misconduct, but without demonstrated harm, it may not meet the full criteria for negligence.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Taking on additional responsibilities typically increases workload and demands, which can significantly escalate stress levels rather than reduce them. Stress reduction strategies focus on managing existing stressors and incorporating activities that promote relaxation and well-being, not adding more pressure. This choice directly contradicts effective stress management principles by increasing physiological and psychological demands.
Choice B rationale
Limiting vacation time is counterproductive to stress reduction. Vacations provide essential opportunities for physical and mental rejuvenation, allowing individuals to step away from daily stressors, recover from work-related fatigue, and engage in activities that promote well-being. Reducing this restorative period can lead to burnout and increased chronic stress levels, negatively impacting overall health.
Choice C rationale
Being a good listener facilitates effective communication and strengthens interpersonal relationships, which are vital components of social support. Social support networks act as a buffer against stress by providing emotional, informational, and tangible assistance. Engaging actively in listening can also reduce personal rumination by focusing on others, thus promoting a more balanced mental state.
Choice D rationale
Wearing comfortable clothing can directly influence physiological and psychological comfort. Restrictive or uncomfortable attire can contribute to physical tension, discomfort, and even pain, which can exacerbate stress. Conversely, comfortable clothing promotes relaxation and a sense of ease, reducing superficial irritants that can contribute to overall stress levels and improving body image.
Choice E rationale
Maintaining contact with friends provides a crucial social support system. Strong social connections offer emotional support, opportunities for shared experiences, and a sense of belonging, all of which are protective factors against stress. Engaging with friends can alleviate feelings of isolation, provide different perspectives, and offer a positive outlet for processing emotions, thereby reducing the burden of stress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Advocating for the client is a fundamental ethical responsibility of nurses, as outlined in the ANA Code of Ethics. In this scenario, reporting abuse to social services demonstrates the nurse's commitment to protecting the client's rights, well-being, and safety, especially for vulnerable individuals who may not be able to advocate for themselves.
Choice B rationale
Committing to quality client care is a broad ethical principle that encompasses many aspects of nursing practice, including providing competent care. While reporting abuse contributes to quality care by ensuring safety, "advocating for the client" more specifically describes the nurse's direct action in protecting a vulnerable individual from harm.
Choice C rationale
Honoring the client's human dignity involves treating clients with respect and preserving their inherent worth. While reporting abuse helps to restore dignity by stopping mistreatment, the direct action of intervening on behalf of the client in a protective manner is best described as advocacy.
Choice D rationale
Promoting research to advance nursing practice involves contributing to the development of new knowledge and evidence-based interventions. While important for professional growth, it is not the primary ethical provision that describes the direct act of reporting client abuse. The immediate action is focused on client protection.
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