A nurse is auscultating a client's carotid artery while performing a focused cardiac assessment and hears a bruit. The nurse should identify this finding as a manifestation of which of the following conditions?

Choice A rationale:

Justice refers to the fair distribution of resources and benefits. It pertains to treating individuals equitably and ensuring that their rights are respected. However, in this scenario, the nurse is specifically addressing the client's right to refuse treatment, which aligns more with the concept of autonomy.

Choice B rationale:

Veracity is the principle of truthfulness and honesty in communication between healthcare professionals and clients. While it is an important ethical principle, it does not directly relate to the client's right to refuse treatment. This right falls under the principle of autonomy, where individuals have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare, including the decision to refuse treatment.

Choice C rationale:

Fidelity, also known as loyalty or faithfulness, refers to the nurse's commitment to keeping promises and being dedicated to the well-being of the client. While respecting the client's autonomy is part of being faithful to their needs and preferences, the specific right to refuse treatment is better categorized under the principle of autonomy.

Choice D rationale:

Autonomy is the correct choice. Autonomy emphasizes an individual's right to make decisions regarding their own healthcare based on their values, beliefs, and preferences. In this context, the nurse's responsibility is to uphold the client's autonomy by respecting their decision to refuse treatment. The nurse should ensure that the client has been properly informed about the risks and benefits of the treatment and that their decision is voluntary and informed.

Choice A rationale: Administering a rectal suppository is a medication administration task that should be performed by a licensed nurse, not delegated to an assistive personnel.

Choice B rationale: Instructing a client to use an incentive spirometer involves providing education and ensuring proper technique, which falls within the scope of practice of a licensed nurse.

Choice C rationale: Measuring blood glucose for a client with diabetic ketoacidosis involves monitoring a critical condition and interpreting results, which should be done by a licensed nurse.

Choice D rationale: Using a pulse oximeter to measure oxygen saturation is a simple and routine task that can be delegated to an assistive personnel for a stable client who is ready for discharge.