When a nurse respects the decision of a client who refuses a blood transfusion, which ethical principle is the nurse upholding?

“I feel uncomfortable praying with you, but I will find someone who won’t feel that way.” This statement by the nurse would best meet the client’s spiritual needs because it acknowledges the nurse’s own boundaries and feelings while also respecting the client’s request and finding a way to fulfill it.

Some possible explanations for why the other choices are wrong are:

Choice A is wrong because it does not address the client’s request to pray together and it assumes that the client wants a Bible without asking.

Choice B is wrong because it implies that the nurse does not want to pray with the client and that the client’s visitors would be more suitable for this task, which could make the client feel rejected or unsupported.

Choice C is wrong because it directly rejects the client’s request and discloses the nurse’s personal beliefs, which could create a sense of disconnection or conflict between the nurse and the client.

What has it been like for you since your wife died? This statement shows empathy and invites the client to share his feelings and experiences.

It also acknowledges the client’s loss and validates his grief.

Choice A. Tell me how your wife died.

This statement is too intrusive and may cause the client to feel uncomfortable or defensive. It also focuses on the past event rather than the present situation.

Choice B. Have you considered attending a grief group? This statement is too premature and may imply that the nurse is trying to solve the client’s problem or dismiss his feelings.

It also assumes that the client needs or wants a grief group.

Choice D. You have wonderful children and grandchildren who are very supportive.

This statement is too superficial and may minimize the client’s grief or make him feel guilty. It also shifts the attention away from the client and his wife.