A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who has schizophrenia and is being prescribed a new antipsychotic medication. The client's parent asks the nurse not to discuss the medication side effects with the client. Which of the following ethical principles does this request violate?
Veracity
Fidelity
Autonomy
Justice
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Veracity: Veracity refers to the obligation to tell the truth and provide accurate information. While withholding information could also violate this principle, the core issue in this scenario centers more on the client's right to make informed decisions rather than truth-telling alone.
B. Fidelity: Fidelity involves keeping promises and maintaining trust in the nurse-client relationship. While failing to inform the client may strain trust, the request from the parent specifically violates the client's right to participate in decisions about their care.
C. Autonomy: Autonomy is the right of individuals to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. Withholding information about medication side effects directly interferes with the client’s ability to provide informed consent, violating this fundamental ethical principle.
D. Justice: Justice involves fairness and equality in the distribution of care and resources. This principle is not directly implicated in the scenario, as the issue is not about fairness but about the individual’s right to know and decide.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
• Temperature: An elevated temperature of 39.3° C is consistent with an active infection like pneumonia. This finding supports the need for antibiotic treatment and does not delay administration unless linked to an adverse drug reaction.
• WBC count: A WBC count of 16,000/mm³ indicates leukocytosis, which is expected in bacterial pneumonia. It confirms infection and the need for antibiotics, not a reason to withhold cefazolin.
• Allergies: The client has a documented allergy to penicillin, which is critical because cefazolin is a cephalosporin. Cephalosporins share a similar beta-lactam structure and can cross-react in clients with penicillin allergies, increasing the risk of anaphylaxis. Reporting this ensures safe prescribing and prevents a life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction.
• Chest x-ray: The left lower lobe density confirms pneumonia. This imaging supports the clinical decision to administer antibiotics and does not warrant withholding the prescribed medication.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Give the client several choices of foods for meals.": Providing multiple options can overwhelm a client with dementia and increase confusion or frustration. It is better to offer one or two simple choices to support decision-making without causing cognitive overload.
B. "Avoid making eye contact with the client.": Avoiding eye contact can appear dismissive or impersonal. Maintaining gentle eye contact helps establish trust, enhances communication, and can be grounding for clients who are cognitively impaired.
C. "Increase environmental stimuli”: A stimulating environment can lead to agitation or disorientation in clients with dementia. These clients benefit from calm, predictable surroundings with reduced noise, clutter, and distractions to support cognitive clarity.
D. "Label the door to the bathroom with a symbol.": Using clear labels or symbols helps orient clients with dementia and reduces confusion. Visual cues support recognition and promote independence in navigating their environment, especially with essential tasks like toileting.
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