A staff nurse loses their job after reporting instances of patient abuse at their hospital to the State Board of Nursing. The nurse thinks they were unfairly dismissed and initiates a whistleblower lawsuit against their former employer. Which of these scenarios closely resembles employer retaliation?
The nurse was discharged after writing a detailed social media post discussing the alleged patient abuse.
The nurse was discharged after three unsuccessful attempts at progressive discipline had failed.
The nurse was fired after formally filing a complaint in writing to hospital administration.
The nurse was fired after threatening to give full details of the patient abuse to local media sources.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A Reason:
The nurse being discharged after writing a detailed social media post discussing the alleged patient abuse could be seen as a violation of hospital policy regarding social media use and patient confidentiality. While this action might seem retaliatory, it is more likely related to the breach of confidentiality and professional conduct standards.
Choice B Reason:
The nurse being discharged after three unsuccessful attempts at progressive discipline had failed indicates that the termination was due to performance issues rather than retaliation. Progressive discipline is a standard procedure used to address performance or behavior issues, and if the nurse failed to improve, the termination would be justified based on those grounds.
Choice C Reason:
The nurse being fired after formally filing a complaint in writing to hospital administration closely resembles employer retaliation. Filing a formal complaint is a protected activity under whistleblower protection laws, and retaliating against an employee for engaging in such activity is illegal. This scenario fits the definition of retaliation as it directly follows the nurse’s protected action.
Choice D Reason:
The nurse being fired after threatening to give full details of the patient abuse to local media sources could be seen as a breach of confidentiality and professional conduct. While this action might seem retaliatory, it is more likely related to the potential harm to the hospital’s reputation and breach of confidentiality.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
“The patient must consent because the procedure is necessary for survival.” This statement is incorrect because it implies that the necessity of the procedure overrides the patient’s autonomy. Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement in healthcare. Patients have the right to make their own decisions about their treatment, even if refusing treatment may result in harm or death. Forcing consent undermines patient autonomy and can lead to legal and ethical issues.
Choice B Reason:
“Consent should not be forced.” This statement is correct and aligns with the principles of patient autonomy and informed consent. Forcing a patient to consent to a procedure violates their rights and can lead to ethical and legal complications. Healthcare providers must respect the patient’s decision, provide all necessary information, and support them in making an informed choice.
Choice C Reason:
“If the surgery is life-saving, we can proceed regardless of what the patient says.” This statement is incorrect. Even in life-saving situations, patients have the right to refuse treatment. There are very few exceptions to this rule, such as when a patient is deemed legally incompetent to make decisions. In such cases, a legal guardian or power of attorney may be involved. However, competent patients retain the right to refuse any medical intervention.
Choice D Reason:
“Sometimes patients refuse because they are anxious. Give them a sedative, then ask again.” This statement is inappropriate and unethical. Administering a sedative to obtain consent can be seen as coercive and does not respect the patient’s autonomy. It is important to address the patient’s concerns and anxiety through communication and support, rather than using medication to influence their decision.
Choice E Reason:
“The patient has every right to refuse.” This statement is correct and reflects the ethical principle of respect for patient autonomy. Patients have the right to make their own healthcare decisions, including the right to refuse treatment. Healthcare providers should ensure that patients are fully informed about their options and the potential consequences of their decisions, but ultimately, the decision rests with the patient.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Advising the nurses to work out the problem between them can be a useful strategy in some situations, as it encourages direct communication and problem-solving. However, in this scenario, the nurses are already speaking loudly and simultaneously, indicating a high level of conflict and emotional intensity. Without managerial intervention, the situation may escalate further. Therefore, this approach may not be effective in resolving the immediate conflict.
Choice B Reason
Sending both nurses away and emphasizing that they cease their complaints is not an effective negotiation strategy. This approach dismisses the concerns of the nurses and does not address the underlying issue. It can lead to feelings of frustration and resentment, potentially worsening the conflict. Effective negotiation requires active listening and addressing the concerns of all parties involved.
Choice C Reason
Requesting each nurse, individually, to state their position is an effective negotiation strategy. This approach allows the manager to understand each nurse’s perspective and the specifics of the conflict. By listening to each nurse separately, the manager can gather all relevant information, reduce the emotional intensity, and facilitate a more structured and productive discussion. This method promotes fairness and ensures that both parties feel heard and respected.
Choice D Reason
Cautioning the nurses that disciplinary actions may be necessary if the issue isn’t resolved is a punitive approach that can escalate the conflict. This strategy may create a hostile environment and discourage open communication. Effective negotiation focuses on finding mutually acceptable solutions rather than threatening consequences. It is important to address the conflict constructively and collaboratively.
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