A nurse verbally contracts with a client to reassess their pain level after repositioning and an analgesic is given. The nurse returns within 60 minutes to evaluate effectiveness of the interventions. What ethical principle does this represent?

When administering an enema to an adult patient with constipation, the nurse must insert the tubing into the patient's rectum to deliver the enema solution effectively. However, it's crucial to avoid inserting the tubing too far to prevent injury or discomfort to the patient. The recommended insertion distance varies depending on the individual patient's anatomy and the type of enema being administered.

A. 4 in. (10.2 cm):

Inserting the enema tubing approximately 4 inches (10.2 cm) into the patient's rectum is considered a safe and effective distance for most adult patients. This depth allows the enema solution to reach the sigmoid colon, facilitating the evacuation of stool and relieving constipation without risking insertion too deeply into the rectum.

B. 5 in (12.7 cm): Inserting the tubing 5 inches into the rectum is generally deeper than necessary and may increase the risk of injury or discomfort. This distance is not typically recommended for safe and effective administration of an enema.

C. 6 in. (15.25 cm): Inserting the tubing 6 inches into the rectum is deeper than necessary and may increase the risk of injury or discomfort. This distance is generally not recommended for safe and effective administration of an enema.

D. 2 in. (5.1 cm): Inserting the tubing 2 inches into the rectum is not considered a safe and effective distance for many adult patients. This distance does not allow for the effective delivery of the enema solution into the lower rectum and sigmoid colon without inserting the tubing too far.

E. 3 in. (7.6 cm): Inserting the tubing 3 inches into the rectum is also considered a safe and effective distance for many adult patients. This distance allows for the delivery of the enema solution into the lower rectum and sigmoid colon without inserting the tubing too far.

A. Be available to the client: This is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take. The client's question reflects existential distress and a search for meaning in the face of suffering. Being available to listen to the client's concerns, offering emotional support, and providing a safe space for the client to express their feelings can be comforting and therapeutic. The nurse should demonstrate empathy, validate the client's emotions, and encourage open communication without imposing personal beliefs or judgments.

B. Call the physician for an antianxiety medication: While the client may be experiencing anxiety or distress, immediately resorting to medication is not the most appropriate response to the client's existential question. Antianxiety medication may provide temporary relief of symptoms but does not address the underlying spiritual or existential distress. It is essential for the nurse to explore the client's concerns and provide holistic support rather than solely relying on pharmacological interventions.

C. Advise the client to pray for answers: This response imposes the nurse's religious or spiritual beliefs onto the client and may not be appropriate for individuals who do not share the same beliefs. It is essential for the nurse to respect the client's autonomy and beliefs while providing support and guidance. Instead of advising the client to pray, the nurse should focus on active listening, empathy, and providing nonjudgmental support.

D. Share personal religious beliefs with the client: Sharing personal religious beliefs with the client is not appropriate in this situation. Doing so may impose the nurse's beliefs onto the client, which can be perceived as intrusive or insensitive. It is essential for the nurse to maintain professional boundaries and respect the client's autonomy, beliefs, and preferences. The focus should be on providing empathetic support and addressing the client's emotional and existential concerns.