A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with a mental illness. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates the ethical concept of autonomy?
Supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications.
Making sure the client understands expectations for client participation.
Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors.
Encouraging client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience.
Calmly speaking the client's name out of the car window may seem like a non-threatening action, but it involves direct engagement with the client while he is holding a weapon. This could put the nurse at risk if the client reacts unpredictably or feels threatened.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications is a direct demonstration of respecting the client's autonomy. Autonomy in nursing is the right to self-determination, where patients are provided with adequate information to make their own decisions based on their beliefs and values. By supporting the client's decision, the nurse acknowledges the client's capacity to make informed choices about their own health care, even if the choice is different from what the medical team suggests.
Choice B Reason:
Ensuring that the client understands expectations for participation is more about informed consent and education rather than autonomy. While it is related to autonomy, it does not directly demonstrate the ethical concept since it does not involve a decision made by the client.
Choice C Reason:
Explaining unit rules and policies about unacceptable behaviors is part of the education process and setting boundaries within the healthcare environment. This action is necessary for all clients but does not specifically address the client's autonomy in making personal health decisions.
Choice D Reason:
Encouraging client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience is a way to involve clients in the evaluation process of the facility's services. While this can be seen as respecting the client's opinions, it is not a direct action of supporting the client's autonomous decisions regarding their treatment plan
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While a mental health unit that includes milieu therapy may focus on stabilizing clients, it is not limited to those in an acute phase of mental illness. Milieu therapy is a comprehensive approach that can benefit individuals at various stages of their treatment.
Choice B reason:
Milieu therapy is not necessarily less intensive nor does it focus solely on one psychiatric illness or substance abuse disorder. It is a versatile treatment method that can be applied to a range of conditions and is integrated into the daily life of the unit.
Choice C reason:
This choice accurately reflects the essence of milieu therapy. It is a therapeutic approach where the environment is used as an integral part of treatment. The goal is to create a stable, adaptive reality through routines, boundaries, and open communication, fostering a sense of safety and support for therapeutic change.
Choice D reason:
Milieu therapy is not exclusively focused on long-term care but is adaptable to the needs of clients, whether they require short-term stabilization or long-term treatment. It is designed to help individuals learn healthier ways of thinking and behaving within a supportive community setting.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Providing reading material about the surgery can be informative, but it may not be the best approach for someone who is already very nervous. It could potentially increase anxiety if the information is overwhelming or if the client misinterprets the material.
Choice B reason:
Suggesting a walk could serve as a distraction and help to calm the client's nerves. However, it might not address the underlying anxiety about the surgery itself. It's a temporary measure that doesn't offer emotional support or address the client's immediate concerns.
Choice C reason:
Referring the client to the pastoral care team could be beneficial if the client is seeking spiritual support or comfort. However, this should be based on the client's personal preferences and beliefs, and it may not be the most direct way to address the client's stated nervousness.
Choice D reason:
Engaging the client in a conversation about their feelings provides an opportunity for emotional support and can help the nurse understand the client's specific fears. This approach can lead to a more personalized care plan to alleviate anxiety.
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