What are the ethical principles sometimes overlooked in identifying and reporting suspected child abuse?

The hospital accepts full responsibility for the negligent act: While the hospital does have a shared responsibility for the safety of patients, individual healthcare professionals are accountable for their actions. Hospitals may face consequences as well, but individual practitioners are legally responsible for their own actions.

No legal action can be brought against the nurse: If a nurse makes a medication error, legal action can be taken. Healthcare professionals are accountable for their actions, and legal consequences can follow if negligence or malpractice occurs.

The nurse's legal responsibilities are met if an incident report is filed: Filing an incident report is an important step in addressing errors, but it does not absolve the nurse of legal responsibility. It is a tool used within healthcare institutions to improve patient safety and learn from mistakes, but it does not eliminate the legal consequences of an error.

The nurse is held to the same standard of care as any nurse with her education and experience: Nurses are held to a standard of care based on their education, experience, and the specific circumstances of the situation. If a nurse fails to meet this standard, they can be held legally responsible for their actions.

The client's spouse: While the spouse may be a close family member and have significant input into the client's medical decisions, the ultimate authority for decisions like a DNR order rests with the client, assuming they are competent to make their own decisions.

The client's only child: Similar to the spouse, a child can have an emotional and supportive role in the decision-making process, but unless legally designated as the healthcare proxy or power of attorney for healthcare decisions, they do not typically have the legal authority to make decisions for a competent adult.

The client: In the context of medical decision-making, the principle of patient autonomy is fundamental. If the client is competent and capable of making decisions, their wishes and consent are paramount. In the case of a DNR order, it should be discussed thoroughly with the client, ensuring they understand the implications, risks, and benefits before making an informed decision.

Any close blood-related relative: In general, the authority to make medical decisions, including DNR orders, is not automatically granted to any blood-related relative. The client or their legally appointed representative (such as a healthcare proxy) usually holds this authority.