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.
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
Rationale:
A. "What do you have against me? It must be something or you wouldn't be criticizing my care." is defensive and confrontational, which is not appropriate for assertive communication.
B. "You shouldn't make accusations. Your nursing care doesn't always set a good example." is also defensive and shifts the focus away from addressing the concern directly.
C. "I feel as though I met the standard of care. Would you tell me more about your concerns?" is an assertive response that acknowledges the concern and seeks constructive feedback.
D. "I am at a loss for words. I always do my best to give good care to my clients." is not assertive as it does not address the concern directly or invite constructive discussion.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. False imprisonment involves restricting a person’s freedom of movement, not administering medication against their will.
B. Assault involves the threat of harm, not the actual administration of medication.
C. Battery is the intentional touching of another person without consent, which includes administering medication to a competent person who has refused it.
D. Negligence involves failure to meet the standard of care, but administering medication against a patient’s wishes is more accurately described as battery.