A registered nurse is interested in functioning as a health care advocate for individuals whose lives are affected by violence. This nurse will be investigating which expanded career role?

The Nursing Code of Ethics for Professional Registered Nurses is a foundational document that outlines the ethical obligations and duties of every nurse. It serves as a guide for clinical practice and professional behavior, especially in complex situations

Rationale for correct answer:

D. Defines the principles of right and wrong to provide patient care: The Nursing Code of Ethics defines the principles of right and wrong to guide nurses in ethical decision-making and behavior. It provides a moral compass for navigating complex patient care situations.

Rationales for incorrect answers:

A. Improves self-health care: While nurses are encouraged to care for their own health, the primary purpose of the Code of Ethics is to guide professional practice in relation to patient care, not personal wellness.

B. Protects the patient’s confidentiality: Protecting confidentiality is one of the ethical responsibilities outlined in the Code, but it is not the main purpose. The Code encompasses much broader ethical principles.

C. Ensures identical care to all patients: The goal of ethical nursing care is equitable care based on individual patient needs, not identical care. The Code promotes fairness and justice, which may involve tailoring care based on each patient’s unique circumstances.

Take-home points:

• The Nursing Code of Ethics provides a moral foundation for nurses, helping them make sound decisions in ethically challenging situations, such as end-of-life care.
• Understanding the code supports the delivery of compassionate, respectful, and individualized care that upholds human dignity and professional integrity.

Advanced practice roles in nursing have expanded the scope of what nurses can do in clinical settings. Some of these roles include direct patient care at an advanced level, involving tasks traditionally associated with physicians, such as diagnosing conditions and prescribing treatment.

Rationale for correct answer:

C. A Nurse Practitioner is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with training and licensure that allows them to obtain patient histories, conduct physical exams, order and interpret tests, diagnose medical conditions, and provide treatment, including prescribing medications.

Rationale for incorrect answers:

A. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS): A CNS is an advanced practice nurse who specializes in a particular area of nursing (e.g., pediatrics, oncology, critical care) and focuses on improving patient outcomes through consultation, education, research, and system improvement.

B. A case manager coordinates comprehensive care plans for patients, ensuring efficient use of resources and appropriate care transitions. They do not diagnose or treat patients and do not perform physical exams or order tests.

D. A nurse manager is responsible for supervising nursing staff, budgeting, scheduling, and ensuring compliance with policies. They typically do not provide direct patient care such as diagnosing or ordering tests in their administrative role.

Take home points:

• A Nurse Practitioner (NP) is a licensed advanced practice nurse who can diagnose and manage patient care independently, including ordering tests and prescribing treatments.
• Understanding the scope of each advanced nursing role ensures appropriate delegation, collaboration, and career planning within the nursing profession.