While preparing a client for surgery, the nurse marks the arm that is to be amputated and participates in a “time-out” procedure before the surgery begins.
Which sentinel event is this action intended to prevent?

This aligns with the professional code of ethics for nurses, which states that nurses should respect the dignity, worth and rights of all human beings, regardless of the nature of their health problems or their social or legal status. The nurse should not let personal feelings or biases interfere with the quality of care or the ethical obligations of the profession.

Choice A is wrong because the nurse refuses to care of the client. This violates the principle of beneficence, which means doing good and preventing harm to others.

The nurse has a duty to provide care to all patients who need it, regardless of their personal opinions or feelings.

Choice B is wrong because the nurse delegates all care of the client to an assistant. This violates the principle of accountability, which means being answerable for one’s actions and decisions. The nurse cannot delegate tasks that require nursing judgment or assessment to an unlicensed person.

The nurse is responsible for ensuring that the patient receives safe and competent care.

Choice C is wrong because the nurse provides minimal care to keep the client alive. This violates the principle of non-maleficence, which means avoiding harm or injury to others.

The nurse should not provide substandard care or neglect the patient’s needs or preferences.

The nurse should strive to promote the health and well-being of the patient.

A lack of insurance or lack of sufficient insurance is a huge barrier in accessing health care. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, uninsured people are less likely to receive preventive care and services for major health conditions and chronic diseases. They also face greater difficulties in affording care and paying medical bills.

Choice B is wrong because politics is not the only factor that affects the availability and affordability of health insurance. Other factors include income, employment status, age, health status, and geographic location. Nurses have a professional and ethical responsibility to advocate for the health needs of their clients and communities, which may involve engaging with political issues. Choice C is wrong because language is not the only problem for uninsured or underinsured clients. Other problems include cost, access, quality, and continuity of care. Language barriers may affect communication and understanding between clients and providers, but they can be addressed by using interpreters, translators, or culturally competent staff.

Choice D is wrong because the Joint Commission does not regulate insurance coverage. The Joint Commission is an independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies health care organizations and programs in the United States. It sets standards for quality and safety of care, but it does not determine who is eligible for insurance or what benefits are covered.