A nurse is caring for a client who has a terminal illness and states that they wish to discontinue their enteral feedings. The nurse responds by saying, "You have a right to refuse treatment." This response by the nurse demonstrates which of the following ethical principles?
Autonomy
Fidelity
Beneficence
Justice
The Correct Answer is A
A. Autonomy refers to the right of individuals to make their own decisions regarding their healthcare, including the right to refuse treatment, which the nurse has supported in their response.
B. Fidelity involves being faithful to commitments made to patients, such as providing care and support, but does not directly pertain to the client's right to refuse treatment.
C. Beneficence focuses on promoting the well-being of the client, which may not align with the client’s decision to refuse treatment in this context.
D. Justice refers to fairness in healthcare and ensuring equitable treatment, but it does not address the specific right of the client to refuse treatment.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter can be performed by licensed practical nurses (LPNs) under the supervision of an RN, so this task does not need to be reassigned.
B. Administering heparin subcutaneously is a task that can be performed by LPNs, so it does not require reassignment to an RN.
C. Suctioning a client's new tracheostomy is a more complex procedure that requires advanced skills and assessment, making it appropriate for an RN rather than an LPN.
D. Classifying a pressure ulcer is a task that can be done by both RNs and LPNs, so it does not need to be reassigned.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While paranoia in a client with dementia can be concerning, it is not immediately life-threatening and may require additional support or medication adjustments.
B. Itching after receiving a dose of cefaclor may indicate an allergic reaction, but further assessment would be needed to determine the severity.
C. A weight gain of 1 kg (2.2 lb) in a client with heart failure should be monitored, but it is not an immediate concern unless accompanied by other symptoms of fluid overload.
D. The progression of a pressure ulcer from stage II to stage III indicates a worsening condition that requires urgent intervention to prevent further complications and potential infection, making it the highest priority to report.