A client asks the nurse about the ethical principle of non-maleficence in the context of pediatric pain management.
The nurse should explain:
"We should strive to minimize harm and avoid unnecessary pain or suffering, balancing the need for pain relief with potential side effects and risks of medications.”..
"We prioritize immediate pain relief, even if it means exposing the child to potential harm or side effects of medications.”..
"Pain relief interventions should be delayed to observe the child's condition, ensuring no harm is done during the process.”..
"We administer medications without considering potential side effects, focusing solely on relieving the child's pain.”..
The Correct Answer is A
We should strive to minimize harm and avoid unnecessary pain or suffering, balancing the need for pain relief with potential side effects and risks of medications.”..
This aligns with the principle of non-maleficence, which is one of the core principles of medical ethics.
Non-maleficence means "do no harm," and it emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm or minimizing harm when providing medical care.
In the context of pediatric pain management, this principle suggests that healthcare providers should aim to relieve pain while being cautious about the potential side effects and risks of medications.
The goal is to provide pain relief without causing unnecessary harm.
Choice B rationale:
Choice B, "We prioritize immediate pain relief, even if it means exposing the child to potential harm or side effects of medications," does not align with the principle of non-maleficence.
Prioritizing immediate pain relief at the expense of potential harm or side effects goes against the ethical principle of "do no harm.”..
Non-maleficence requires balancing the need for pain relief with the potential risks, not prioritizing pain relief at any cost.
Choice C rationale:
Choice C, "Pain relief interventions should be delayed to observe the child's condition, ensuring no harm is done during the process," is not aligned with the principle of non-maleficence.
Delaying pain relief interventions when they are medically indicated can result in unnecessary suffering, which contradicts the principle of minimizing harm.
Non-maleficence does not advocate for withholding appropriate pain relief.
Choice D rationale:
Choice D, "We administer medications without considering potential side effects, focusing solely on relieving the child's pain," does not align with the principle of non-maleficence.
This approach neglects the potential harm or side effects of medications, which is not consistent with the ethical duty of healthcare providers to avoid causing harm.
Non-maleficence requires a consideration of potential risks and side effects while providing pain relief.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering the pain relief medications as prescribed, disregarding the parents' concerns, is not a demonstration of ethical decision-making.
It does not consider the parents' wishes or the need for shared decision-making in the child's care.
Choice B rationale:
Discussing the potential side effects and benefits of pain relief medications with the parents to reach a shared decision is the most ethical approach.
It respects the parents' concerns while also ensuring that the child receives appropriate pain relief.
Shared decision-making is a crucial component of ethical healthcare practice.
Choice C rationale:
Withholding all pain relief medications to honor the parents' request completely is not ethical and may lead to unnecessary suffering for the child.
It does not strike a balance between respecting the parents' wishes and ensuring the child's well-being.
Choice D rationale:
Consulting the hospital's legal department to overrule the parents' decision is not the best approach.
It should be reserved for situations where a child's life is in immediate danger or when there is a clear conflict of interest.
In this case, the ethical approach is to engage in open communication and shared decision-making with the parents.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is not in line with ethical principles.
Administering analgesics regardless of the child's pain level may not be in the child's best interest and can lead to overmedication and potential harm.
Choice B rationale:
Withholding analgesics solely based on the nurse's belief is not an ethical approach.
Pain management decisions should be based on the child's pain assessment and needs, not the nurse's personal judgment.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer.
Assessing the child's pain level and administering analgesics accordingly is the ethical approach to pain management.
It considers the child's pain and ensures pain relief while minimizing potential risks and side effects.
Choice D rationale:
Administering analgesics only if the child requests them may not be appropriate in all situations.
It's essential to assess the child's pain level and provide pain relief as needed, even if the child does not explicitly request it.
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