Which of the following approaches is best to determine the quality and strength of a research study?

Choice A Reason

Abandonment occurs when a nurse terminates the nurse-patient relationship without reasonable notice or providing a competent replacement. This can leave the patient without necessary care and support, potentially leading to harm. In this scenario, the nurse did not abandon the patient but instead threatened to withhold care, which aligns more closely with the definition of assault.

Choice B Reason

Battery involves the actual physical contact with a patient without their consent. This could include actions such as administering a medication against the patient’s will or physically restraining them without justification. In this case, the nurse did not physically touch the patient, so battery is not the correct term for the described behavior.

Choice C Reason

Assault is the threat of harm or unwanted physical contact that causes the patient to fear for their safety. By threatening to withhold the client’s meal tray, the nurse is using intimidation to coerce the patient into compliance. This threat can cause the patient to feel fearful and anxious, which constitutes assault. The key element here is the threat of harm, not the actual physical act.

Choice D Reason

False imprisonment involves restraining a patient against their will without legal justification. This could include locking a patient in a room or using physical restraints without a medical order. The scenario does not describe any form of physical restraint or confinement, so false imprisonment is not applicable in this context.

Choice A Reason:

The conflict can help nurses better identify their common values. While conflict can sometimes lead to positive outcomes, such as a deeper understanding of shared values and improved communication, it often requires effective conflict resolution strategies and a supportive environment. In the context of a new policy that has already sparked mistrust, it is less likely that the immediate outcome will be positive without deliberate efforts to address the underlying issues.

Choice B Reason:

Diverted attention and energy from patient care may potentially impact patient well-being. This is a significant concern in healthcare settings, especially in intensive care units where patient needs are critical. When nurses are preoccupied with internal conflicts and mistrust, their focus on patient care can be compromised, leading to potential negative outcomes for patients. Ensuring that the team remains cohesive and focused on patient care is essential for maintaining high standards of care and patient safety.

Choice C Reason:

The policy change, being the correct choice, will improve the overall unit performance. This statement assumes that the policy change is inherently beneficial and that its positive effects will be immediately apparent. However, even well-intentioned policies can face resistance if not properly communicated and implemented. The initial mistrust and conflict may hinder the potential benefits of the policy, at least in the short term.

Choice D Reason:

When observing the favorable results of the decision, the dissenting nurses may recognize their previous stance was mistaken, promoting unity within the group. While this outcome is possible, it is not the most likely immediate outcome given the initial mistrust and conflict. It often takes time for the positive effects of a policy change to become evident and for dissenting team members to change their perspectives. Effective leadership and communication are crucial in facilitating this process.