A nurse is caring for a client who has 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.
Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors.
Making sure the client understands expectations for client participation.
Encouraging client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
Supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications directly aligns with the ethical principle of autonomy. Autonomy, in the context of healthcare, grants individuals the right to make informed decisions about their own bodies and treatment plans, even if those decisions go against medical advice. It's crucial to respect a client's autonomy, even when they have a mental illness, as long as they have the capacity to make informed decisions. Key points to elaborate on:
Capacity to make informed decisions: Assess if the client can understand the risks and benefits of refusing medication, as well as the potential consequences of their decision.
Informed consent: Ensure the client has received comprehensive information about their diagnosis, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits, enabling them to make an informed choice.
Balancing autonomy with beneficence: While autonomy is paramount, nurses also have a duty of beneficence, which means acting in the client's best interests. Engaging in open discussions about the rationale for medication, exploring potential concerns, and offering alternative treatment options can help balance autonomy with beneficence.
Mental illness and decision-making: Acknowledge that mental illness can sometimes impact decision-making abilities. However, this does not automatically negate a client's right to autonomy. Careful assessment and ongoing communication are essential.
Advocacy: Nurses can play a vital role in advocating for clients' autonomy, ensuring their voices are heard and their wishes respected within the healthcare system.
I'll continue with rationales for other choices in the following responses, aiming for approximately 1000 words in total, as instructed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["10"]
Explanation
To calculate the amount of fluoxetine to administer, we can use the following steps:
Step 1: Identify the desired dose, which is 40 mg.
Step 2: Identify the available dose, which is 20 mg/5 mL.
Step 3: Set up the equation to solve for the unknown, which is the volume in mL. The equation is (Desired Dose ÷ Available Dose) × Volume = Volume to Administer.
Step 4: Substitute the known values into the equation: (40 mg ÷ 20 mg) × 5 mL = Volume to Administer. Step 5: Solve the equation: 2 × 5 mL = 10 mL.
So, the nurse should administer 10 mL of fluoxetine.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
While a client's unwillingness to accept treatment can be a challenge, it does not, in and of itself, meet the criteria for involuntary hospitalization beyond the initial 72-hour hold.
Forced treatment without a clear and imminent risk of harm can violate a patient's autonomy and rights.
It's crucial for healthcare professionals to balance a patient's right to self-determination with the need to protect individuals from harm.
Choice B rationale:
A client's plan to move out of state, even if it's considered a disruptive decision, does not constitute grounds for involuntary hospitalization.
Individuals have the right to freedom of movement and to make choices about their life, even if those choices are perceived as unwise or problematic.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct answer because it aligns with the fundamental principle of involuntary hospitalization: to protect individuals who pose a serious risk of harm to themselves or others due to a mental health condition.
This rationale is rooted in the ethical and legal obligation to prevent harm and ensure public safety.
Choice D rationale:
A client's dislike of a neighbor is not a valid reason for involuntary hospitalization. Personal opinions or feelings, even if negative, do not automatically translate into a risk of harm that would justify involuntary confinement.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.