In a team meeting, a nurse says, "I'm concerned whether we are behaving ethically by using restraint to prevent one patient from self-mutilation while the care plan for another patient who has also self-mutilated calls for one-on-one supervision." Which ethical principle most clearly applies to this situation?
Fidelity
Beneficence
Autonomy
Justice
The Correct Answer is D
A. Fidelity pertains to faithfulness, loyalty, and keeping promises, which may not directly address the fairness of resource allocation or treatment.
B. Beneficence refers to doing good and promoting the patient's well-being. While it's relevant to patient care, it might not specifically address the fair distribution of resources or actions among different patients.
C. Autonomy emphasizes a patient's right to make decisions about their care and treatment, which doesn't directly address the fairness or justice in the scenario described.
D. Justice concerns the fair and equitable distribution of resources, treatment, and decisions among individuals. In this case, it's about ensuring fairness in the application of care plans and resources for patients who self-mutilate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While acknowledging the patient's feelings is important, ensuring safety is the priority, and the response should emphasize the ongoing concern for safety.
B. Prioritizing patient safety and care is crucial, especially in situations involving suicidal risks.
C. Encouraging the patient to elaborate further is essential; however, the priority is to maintain the safety precautions.
D. Directing the patient to not participate in their care isn't supportive or therapeutic, especially when safety is a concern.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Intervening during self-harm is more related to beneficence (preventing harm) rather than autonomy (respecting the patient's right to make decisions).
B. Autonomy involves respecting a patient's right to make decisions about their care, including discussing alternatives for treatment.
C. Staying with an anxious patient is supportive but doesn't specifically address the principle of autonomy.
D. Restricting patients who are fighting is more related to safety and order within the unit, not necessarily autonomy.
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