A nurse manager assigns a nurse to a client who is to undergo a procedural abortion. The nurse refuses the assignment based on their own spiritual beliefs. Which of the following actions should the nurse manager take?
Instruct the nurse to discuss their beliefs with the client.
Reassign the nurse to a different client.
Report the nurse to the ethics committee.
Inform the nurse that this action is a violation of the nursing code of ethics.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Instruct the nurse to discuss their beliefs with the client: Sharing personal beliefs with the client can impose the nurse’s values and compromise patient autonomy. Professional boundaries require that nurses provide nonjudgmental care and avoid influencing a client’s decisions based on personal or spiritual views.
B. Reassign the nurse to a different client: The nursing code of ethics supports a nurse’s right to conscientious objection, provided that patient care is not compromised. Reassigning the nurse ensures that the client receives timely, unbiased care while respecting the nurse’s moral beliefs. This action maintains both ethical integrity and continuity of care.
C. Report the nurse to the ethics committee: Refusal based on genuine moral or spiritual beliefs is not inherently an ethical violation if the nurse follows proper procedures and ensures patient care is not abandoned. Escalating to the ethics committee is unnecessary when reassignment can resolve the issue effectively.
D. Inform the nurse that this action is a violation of the nursing code of ethics: The code of ethics allows nurses to decline participation in procedures that conflict with deeply held beliefs, as long as they do not abandon the client. Labeling the action as a violation is inaccurate and disregards ethical provisions supporting moral integrity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Placenta previa: Placenta previa typically presents with painless vaginal bleeding in the third trimester because the placenta is implanted over or near the cervical os. Uterine contractions and abdominal rigidity are uncommon, and hypotension may occur only if bleeding is severe. The sudden severe pain is not characteristic of placenta previa.
B. Placental abruption: Placental abruption involves premature separation of a normally implanted placenta and presents with sudden, severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding (often dark red), uterine rigidity, and frequent, persistent contractions. Maternal hypotension and fetal distress can occur due to blood loss. The client’s symptoms of acute pain, bleeding, rigid abdomen, and low BP are classic signs of placental abruption.
C. Amniotic fluid embolus: Amniotic fluid embolus is a rare, life-threatening obstetric emergency that occurs during labor or postpartum. It typically presents with sudden respiratory distress, hypotension, and coagulopathy. While hypotension is present, the hallmark severe abdominal pain and rigid uterus are not primary features.
D. Uterine rupture: Uterine rupture is most common in clients with a previous cesarean section or uterine surgery. It presents with sudden abdominal pain, loss of fetal station, and signs of shock. While the client’s presentation shares some similarities, moderate vaginal bleeding with a rigid uterus and contractions is more consistent with placental abruption.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Ignore disruptive behaviors: Ignoring disruptive or inappropriate behaviors can contribute to a toxic work environment and increase emotional stress among staff. Addressing such behaviors through appropriate channels supports psychological safety and reduces the cumulative stress that contributes to compassion fatigue.
B. Publicly confront coworkers when conflict arises: Public confrontation can escalate conflict, damage professional relationships, and increase workplace stress. Effective conflict resolution requires respectful, private communication and the use of structured approaches, which helps maintain a supportive environment and reduces emotional exhaustion.
C. Encourage a passive communication style: Passive communication often leads to unexpressed concerns, unmet needs, and internalized stress, all of which contribute to burnout and compassion fatigue. Assertive communication is recommended instead, as it promotes clarity, mutual respect, and emotional well-being among healthcare staff.
D. Focus on self-care: Self-care is a cornerstone in preventing and managing compassion fatigue. Strategies such as adequate rest, stress management, emotional support, and maintaining work-life balance help nurses cope with repeated exposure to patient suffering. Prioritizing self-care enhances resilience, reduces burnout, and supports long-term professional functioning.
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.