The newly hired public health nurse understands that which of the following is an example of moral distress?
Having the knowledge and skill set needed to advocate for the patient, but not being able to act on it due to not having the authority to do so.
Having the authority to call off a code, then realizing the decision was harmful to the patient.
Having the authority to override a physician's order for pain medication.
Having the knowledge and skill set needed to provide culturally competent care.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Having the knowledge and skill set needed to advocate for the patient, but not being able to act on it due to not having the authority to do so. Moral distress occurs when a nurse knows the right action to take but is constrained by external factors such as policies, hierarchy, or legal limitations.
B. Having the authority to call off a code, then realizing the decision was harmful to the patient. This describes moral regret or ethical uncertainty, not moral distress. Moral distress occurs when a nurse is unable to act according to their ethical beliefs.
C. Having the authority to override a physician's order for pain medication. This describes an ethical dilemma rather than moral distress. Moral distress arises when a nurse cannot act despite knowing the right course of action.
D. Having the knowledge and skill set needed to provide culturally competent care. Cultural competence is an important aspect of nursing, but it does not describe moral distress, which involves ethical conflict and external barriers.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Political action is the way you try to fulfill your ethical responsibilities to clients." Nurses advocate for patients, and political involvement helps influence healthcare policies, funding, and patient rights. Participating in policy changes aligns with the nursing code of ethics.
B. "As long as you pay your membership fee to the American Nurses Association, you have participated in the profession's political endeavors." Paying fees does not equate to active political involvement or advocacy.
C. "You're absolutely right; if you are good clinically, you have fulfilled your obligation." While clinical skills are vital, nursing also includes advocacy for systemic healthcare improvements.
D. "When you've completed your clinical orientation, then you'll have time to be involved in politics." Political involvement is ongoing and should not be delayed indefinitely.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Having unprotected sex with someone who is infected spreads HIV." HIV is commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person.
B. "I wouldn't sit next to someone with HIV." HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, such as sitting next to someone, hugging, or sharing food. This response reflects a misunderstanding and indicates a need for more education.
C. "Transfusions of blood products that are contaminated can spread HIV." Although rare in developed countries due to blood screening, contaminated blood transfusions can transmit HIV.
D. "Sharing needles when shooting up drugs spreads HIV." Sharing contaminated needles is a major risk factor for HIV transmission.
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