Why is it important to assess range of motion before applying restraints?

Choice A reason: Nonmaleficence is the principle of "do no harm." While a breach of privacy could potentially lead to harm (such as social stigma), the primary principle specifically governing the protection of private information is confidentiality. Nonmaleficence is a broader concept usually applied to physical procedures or the withholding of harmful treatments.

Choice B reason: Confidentiality is the specific ethical and legal duty to safeguard a patient's private information. Sharing data with colleagues who are not part of the patient's direct care team—even if done with good intentions—is a violation of the patient's trust and a breach of professional standards established by HIPAA and nursing codes of ethics.

Choice C reason: Beneficence requires the nurse to act in ways that benefit the patient. Sharing information without consent rarely benefits the patient and usually only serves the curiosity or convenience of the healthcare workers. Therefore, this action is a failure to uphold the nurse's duty to protect the patient's interests and privacy.

Choice D reason: Justice refers to fairness and the equitable distribution of care and resources. It ensures that all patients receive the same quality of care regardless of their background. While a privacy breach is a serious ethical failure, it is not primarily a violation of the principle of justice unless information is being selectively leaked to cause inequity.

Choice A reason: Basing assessments on appearance leads to stereotyping and clinical bias, which can result in significant health disparities. Cultural identity is complex and internal; it cannot be determined by external physical characteristics. Assuming preferences without verification violates the principle of individualized, person-centered care and can damage the therapeutic relationship.

Choice B reason: While institutional policies provide a framework for general competence, they cannot account for the unique, individual nuances of every patient. Policies are secondary to the direct, real-time assessment of the patient's specific values. Relying solely on a manual prevents the nurse from understanding the patient's lived experience.

Choice C reason: Using the nurse’s own cultural norms as a default is a form of ethnocentrism. This can create communication barriers, as the patient may have different views on eye contact, personal space, or the involvement of family in medical decisions. The nurse must adapt to the patient's needs.

Choice D reason: Using open-ended questions allows the client to describe their health beliefs and practices in their own words. This qualitative approach uncovers specific cultural requirements regarding diet, modesty, and traditional healing. It ensures that the care plan is culturally congruent, which improves patient adherence and overall health outcomes.