A nurse in a mental health unit is discussing the concepts of competency and capacity with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the concepts?
"Competency and capacity are often discussed as being the same thing, but they are different."
"Capacity and competency are the same thing and can be used interchangeably."
"A client who has been deemed legally incompetent can provide informed consent for treatment."
"Competency and capacity are rarely a concern when caring for clients who have a mental illness."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Competency and capacity are often discussed as being the same thing, but they are different." Competency is a legal determination made by a court, while capacity is a clinical assessment made by healthcare providers. Although they are related, they are distinct concepts.
B. "Capacity and competency are the same thing and can be used interchangeably." This is incorrect because capacity refers to a person's ability to make a decision at a specific moment, while competency is a broader legal determination regarding decision-making ability.
C. "A client who has been deemed legally incompetent can provide informed consent for treatment." A legally incompetent client cannot provide informed consent. Instead, a legally designated surrogate (guardian or power of attorney) makes medical decisions on their behalf.
D. "Competency and capacity are rarely a concern when caring for clients who have a mental illness." Mental illness can impact decision-making capacity, making assessments crucial. Competency and capacity evaluations are common in mental health settings, especially for clients with cognitive impairment or psychosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Interrupt the client's statement to clarify thoughts or ideas. Interrupting can make the client feel unheard and disrupt the flow of conversation.
B. Show emotion when a client is disclosing sensitive information. While empathy is important, the nurse should remain professional and composed to provide objective support.
C. Keep direct eye contact to a minimum. Avoiding eye contact may appear disinterested or disengaged.
D. Avoid looking at other clients on the unit. Maintaining focus on the client demonstrates active listening, engagement, and respect.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Autonomy refers to a client’s right to make their own decisions regarding care. Allowing them to choose between morning and afternoon therapy respects their independence and decision-making ability.
B. Justice refers to fairness and equal treatment in healthcare. While offering a choice is ethical, it is not related to ensuring fair resource distribution.
C. Beneficence means acting in the best interest of the client to promote well-being. While giving choices can be beneficial, this scenario specifically highlights autonomy.
D. Nonmaleficence means "do no harm." While respecting choices can prevent distress, this principle is more related to avoiding harm rather than promoting independence.
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