A nurse on an inpatient mental health unit is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates the ethical concept of autonomy?
Spending extra time to calm an agitated client
Ensuring that a client understands expectations for group participation
Describing the adverse effects of a client's medications
Importing a client's wishes to refuse prescribed treatments
The Correct Answer is D
Autonomy is the ethical principle that upholds an individual's right to make decisions about their own care and treatment. Respecting autonomy means acknowledging and honoring a person's right to make choices based on their own values, beliefs, and preferences. By importing a client's wishes to refuse prescribed treatments, the nurse is recognizing and respecting the client's autonomy. This shows that the nurse values the client's right to make decisions about their own healthcare and supports their choice, even if it may differ from what the nurse may recommend.
Incorrect:
A. Spending extra time to calm an agitated client demonstrates the ethical principle of beneficence, which is the duty to promote the well-being and welfare of the client.
B. Ensuring that a client understands expectations for group participation relates to the ethical principle of fidelity, which involves maintaining trust and keeping promises to the client.
C. Describing the adverse effects of a client's medications is important for informed consent and promoting understanding, but it does not directly involve the client's autonomy unless it is accompanied by a discussion of the client's choices and preferences regarding medication.

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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Regression is a defense mechanism that involves reverting to an earlier stage of development or behaving in a way that is characteristic of an earlier developmental level in response to stress or anxiety. It is a way for individuals to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations by retreating to a previous, more comfortable state.
In the scenario described, the client's behavior of consistently being late for appointments and ignoring household chores while expressing the need to be taken care of indicates a regressive response to stress. By relying on others to take care of their responsibilities, the client is seeking a sense of security and support, similar to how they may have relied on others in the past, such as during childhood.
Inc
A- Repression involves the unconscious blocking of unacceptable thoughts or impulses from conscious awareness.
B- Introjection is the internalization of values or qualities of another person or group.
C- Dissociation is a defense mechanism that involves detaching oneself from reality or the present moment to avoid emotional distress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
It is essential for the nurse's safety and well-being to remove themselves from a situation where the client is exhibiting verbally abusive behavior. Leaving the room allows the nurse to distance themselves from the confrontational environment and ensures their physical and emotional safety. Continuing to engage with the client may escalate the situation further and put the nurse at risk.
Incorrect:
B. Maintain eye contact until the behavior stops: Maintaining eye contact may be perceived as confrontational or provocative, which can further escalate the situation. It is advisable for the nurse to disengage from the client's presence to avoid potential harm.
C. Tell the client her behavior is disappointing: Engaging in a confrontational or judgmental response can exacerbate the client's anger or aggression. It is important for the nurse to maintain a professional and therapeutic approach while ensuring personal safety.
D. Punish the client for the behavior: Punishment is not an appropriate response to verbally abusive behavior. It can damage the nurse-client relationship and potentially worsen the client's emotional state. Promoting a supportive and therapeutic environment is key in managing challenging behaviors.
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