A nurse accidentally administers the wrong medication to a client, which results in a severe allergic reaction and prolongs the client's hospitalization. The client could rightfully sue the nurse for which of the following?
Battery
Malpractice
Abuse
Assault
The Correct Answer is B
A. Battery refers to the intentional and unlawful physical contact with another person without their consent. In this scenario, the nurse did not intend to harm the patient; the action was accidental. Therefore, battery would not apply here.
B. Malpractice is a type of negligence that occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide the standard of care that a reasonably competent nurse would provide in similar circumstances. Administering the wrong medication is a breach of duty, and if this mistake leads to harm (like an allergic reaction), the nurse can be held liable for malpractice.
C. Abuse generally refers to intentional harm or mistreatment of a patient, often involving physical or emotional harm. Since the nurse's actions were accidental and not intended to cause harm, this would not constitute abuse.
D. Assault involves the threat or attempt to cause physical harm to another person, creating a fear of imminent harm. Since the nurse did not intend to threaten or harm the patient, and the incident was not a threat, this does not fit the definition of assault.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. In many institutions, when a nurse administers a controlled substance and has leftover medication, it is standard practice to have another nurse witness the disposal of the excess. This is a safeguard against misuse and ensures accountability.
B. While a sharps container is appropriate for disposing of needles and other sharp objects, it is not suitable for liquid medications. Discarding liquid medications in a sharps container could lead to contamination and is not compliant with disposal protocols.
C. Medications, especially controlled substances, should never be saved for later use once they have been drawn up or prepared. This practice poses a significant risk for medication errors and misuse.
D. Generally, the waste amount is not sent to the pharmacy. Instead, it should be wasted according to the facility's policy, typically in the presence of another nurse. Sending it to the pharmacy is unnecessary and could create logistical complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While track marks could indicate drug use, this alone does not necessitate a report to an outside agency unless there is evidence of harm to self or others, or if there are suspicions of a substance abuse issue that warrants intervention.
B. Emancipated minors have the legal right to make their own medical decisions, including refusing treatment. In this case, the nurse would ensure the patient is informed of the risks of leaving and document the refusal, but there’s no requirement to disclose to an outside agency.
C. A spiral fracture can be indicative of abuse, particularly if the mechanism of injury is not consistent with the explanation provided. In many jurisdictions, healthcare providers are mandated reporters for suspected abuse or neglect in dependent adults.
D. This situation typically does not involve any legal or ethical obligation to report to outside agencies. Glomerulonephritis is a medical condition and does not indicate any need for disclosure, as it does not suggest abuse or neglect.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.