A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a mental illness on a psychiatric unit. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates the ethical concept of autonomy?

Supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications.

Encouraging client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience.

Making sure the client understands expectations for client participation.

Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

The ethical concept of autonomy centers on respecting an individual's right to make decisions about their own care, even if those decisions go against medical advice. By supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications, the nurse is upholding the principle of autonomy. In mental health care, it is crucial to acknowledge and respect the client's right to make choices about their treatment, even if those choices might not align with the healthcare provider's recommendations. This action promotes patient empowerment and informed decision-making.

Choice B rationale:

While client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience is important for quality improvement, it is not directly related to the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to the client's right to make decisions about their treatment and care, particularly when it comes to medical interventions and choices about their own body.

Choice C rationale:

Ensuring that the client understands expectations for client participation is more aligned with the principle of informed consent and effective communication rather than autonomy. While communication is important for respecting the client's autonomy, this choice does not directly demonstrate the core concept of allowing the client to make decisions about their treatment even if they differ from medical advice.

Choice D rationale:

Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors is related to maintaining a safe and structured environment within the psychiatric unit, but it does not directly reflect the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to decisions specifically related to the client's medical treatment and care, not just the rules of the unit.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is choice D.

Choice A rationale:

Encouraging the family to take the client out of the facility for short periods of time may not be appropriate at this point. Abrupt changes in behavior, like sudden cheerfulness, might be a warning sign for potential suicide risk in individuals with depression. Allowing the client to leave the facility could increase the risk of harm.

Choice B rationale:

Rewarding the client for the change in behavior might inadvertently reinforce the idea that acting cheerful is desirable. This could hinder the client's progress and therapeutic understanding of their condition.

Choice C rationale:

Asking the client why her behavior has changed is a thoughtful and reasonable approach, but it might not address the potential underlying issues adequately. Depression can still be present, and sudden shifts in mood should be monitored closely.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring the client's whereabouts at all times is the appropriate action. Sudden improvements in a depressed client's demeanor could indicate that they have made a decision to end their life. Monitoring ensures their safety and enables prompt intervention if needed.

A. "If a dose is missed, double the next dose of medication." B. "This medication may increase your blood pressure." C. "Do not eat aged cheeses while taking this medication." D. "Use a dependable form of contraception while taking this medication.”

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is D:

Choice A reason: “If a dose is missed, double the next dose of medication.” This statement is incorrect. Doubling up on a dose can lead to an overdose and serious side effects. Patients are advised to take the missed dose as soon as they remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose.

Choice B reason: “This medication may increase your blood pressure.” Alprazolam is known to have a sedative effect, which can lower blood pressure rather than increase it. Therefore, this statement is not typically accurate.

Choice C reason: “Do not eat aged cheeses while taking this medication.” This dietary restriction is associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are a different class of medications used to treat depression. Alprazolam does not interact with tyramine-rich foods like aged cheeses, so this statement is not applicable.

Choice D reason: “Use a dependable form of contraception while taking this medication.” Alprazolam falls under FDA Pregnancy Category D, which means there is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the potential benefits may warrant use in pregnant women despite the risks. Therefore, it is important to use reliable contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.

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A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a mental illness on a psychiatric unit. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates the ethical concept of autonomy?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is teaching a female client who has an anxiety disorder and is prescribed alprazolam (Xanax). Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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