An unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) is caring for a client who is confused and at risk for falls. Which action should the nurse instruct the UAP to implement?

Choice A reason: Veracity involves truthfulness, which is not the primary principle here. The nurse manager’s suggestions about support systems empower the staff member to seek help independently, emphasizing autonomy. Veracity would apply if the manager ensured honest communication, but the focus is on enabling self-directed action, not truth-telling.

Choice B reason: Autonomy is encouraged by suggesting support systems, empowering the staff member to make independent choices about managing personal issues. This principle respects the individual’s right to self-determination, aligning with ethical nursing practice. The manager’s guidance fosters decision-making, enabling the staff member to address emotional challenges proactively.

Choice C reason: Fidelity involves keeping promises or loyalty, which is not the focus. The nurse manager’s action centers on empowering the staff member to seek support, promoting autonomy. Fidelity would apply if the manager committed to ongoing support, but the emphasis is on enabling independent action, not obligation.

Choice D reason: Justice ensures fairness, which is irrelevant here. The nurse manager’s suggestions promote autonomy by encouraging the staff member to choose support systems. Justice would apply in equitable resource allocation, but this scenario focuses on individual empowerment, making autonomy the principle being encouraged by the manager’s actions.

Choice A reason: Determining who brought the coffee is irrelevant to addressing the client’s dietary needs. A clear liquid diet includes black coffee, as it is transparent and easily digested. The priority is ensuring dietary compliance, not investigating staff actions, which does not impact the client’s immediate care or safety.

Choice B reason: Reminding the client that no milk or creamer can be added ensures adherence to a clear liquid diet, which includes black coffee. Coffee without additives is transparent and digestible, fitting dietary guidelines. This action educates the client, prevents dietary violations, and maintains the therapeutic purpose of the prescribed diet.

Choice C reason: Consulting the dietician is unnecessary, as black coffee is standard in clear liquid diets per nutritional guidelines. This action delays care and overcomplicates a straightforward issue. The nurse can directly clarify that coffee is allowed without additives, ensuring compliance without external consultation.

Choice D reason: Removing the coffee is incorrect, as black coffee is permitted in a clear liquid diet. This action unnecessarily restricts the client’s intake and may cause confusion or dissatisfaction. The nurse should instead educate the client about proper consumption, ensuring dietary adherence while maintaining patient comfort.