A nurse is caring for a client who is dying. The nurse should incorporate the principle of nonmaleficence into practice by taking which of the following actions?
Withholding a dose of narcotic pain medication when the client has respiratory depression
Discussing advance directives with the client and the client's family
Providing comfort care measures to the client
Allowing the client's family unlimited visitation at the time of death
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Withholding a dose of narcotic pain medication when there is respiratory depression aligns with nonmaleficence, as it prevents further harm by not exacerbating the client's respiratory issues.
B. Discussing advance directives is important but is more related to autonomy and respect for the client’s wishes rather than nonmaleficence.
C. Providing comfort care is a supportive measure but does not specifically address nonmaleficence in terms of preventing harm.
D. Allowing unlimited visitation respects family wishes but does not directly relate to the principle of nonmaleficence regarding the client’s immediate medical needs.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Asking other staff nurses does not address the immediate concern of the client and could lead to gossip or unnecessary complications.
B. Addressing the concern with the specific staff nurse directly is appropriate to understand any issues and to see if there is a valid reason for the client’s request.
C. Recommending transfer without understanding the issue could be premature and might not address the root of the problem.
D. Notifying human resources is a step that may be needed later but should not be the first action; the manager should first address the issue with the staff nurse.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Whether or not I am a good lover is irrelevant." does not directly address the inappropriate nature of the comment.
B. "Let's talk about something else." avoids the issue without addressing the inappropriateness of the behavior.
C. "You need to lower your voice. Others can hear you." addresses the volume but not the content of the comment.
D. "Speaking to me like that makes me uncomfortable." directly addresses the inappropriate behavior and communicates the impact on the nurse, which is the most appropriate response.