A nursing team leader is presenting an in-service program about the importance of caring.
Which of the following ethical principles specifically addresses doing good?

Choice A rationale

Delaying documentation until approved by a charge nurse suggests a lack of confidence in one's own clinical judgment and assessment skills. Confident nurses document findings accurately and promptly based on their independent assessments, taking accountability for their observations and interventions within their scope of practice.

Choice B rationale

Gathering supplies before entering a client's room to insert an indwelling urinary catheter demonstrates preparedness, efficiency, and confidence. This action reflects proactive planning and a clear understanding of the procedure, minimizing interruptions and ensuring a smooth, competent execution of the task, thereby exhibiting self-assurance in one's abilities.

Choice C rationale

Redirecting the conversation when a client asks about the dying process indicates discomfort or a lack of confidence in addressing sensitive topics. A confident nurse would engage in open, empathetic communication, providing accurate information and emotional support, even when discussing difficult subjects, demonstrating professional composure and compassion.

Choice D rationale

Asking a colleague to perform a skill the nurse is unfamiliar with is a responsible and ethical action, reflecting an awareness of one's limitations, but it does not demonstrate confidence in performing the skill itself. Confidence is shown in the willingness to learn and seek guidance, but directly performing the unfamiliar skill is not implied.

Choice A rationale

Veracity is the ethical principle of telling the truth and being honest. In a healthcare context, this means that healthcare providers have an obligation to provide accurate and complete information to clients, including disclosing errors that may have occurred during their care, which builds trust and promotes client autonomy.

Choice B rationale

Confidentiality is the ethical principle of protecting private client information and not disclosing it to unauthorized individuals. While important, it does not directly address the nurse's obligation to inform the client of an error.

Choice C rationale

Justice is the ethical principle that focuses on fair and equitable treatment for all individuals, ensuring resources are distributed justly and that all clients receive the same standard of care. This principle is not directly related to disclosing an individual medication error.

Choice D rationale

Assessment is a step in the nursing process involving data collection about a client's health status. While crucial for safe nursing practice, it is a clinical skill and not an ethical principle guiding the disclosure of an error.