A nurse is caring for a client who has expressed religious beliefs that conflict with their medical treatment plan.

What should the nurse do?

Respect the client’s beliefs and work with them to find an acceptable compromise.

Explanation: Nurses have an ethical responsibility to provide culturally competent care, which includes respecting their clients’ religious beliefs and values. In this situation, the nurse should work with the client to find a compromise that respects their beliefs while also providing effective medical care.

Incorrect answers:

a. Disregarding the client’s beliefs would violate their right to receive culturally competent care that respects their values.

b. Attempting to convince the client to abandon their beliefs would violate their autonomy and right to make decisions about their own care based on their values.

d. Refusing to provide care due to a client’s beliefs would be discriminatory and would violate their right to receive equitable care.

Consult with the physician and advocate for an increased dose.

Explanation: The nurse has an ethical responsibility to advocate for their client’s well-being, including ensuring that they receive adequate pain management. In this situation, the nurse should consult with the physician and advocate for an increased dose of pain medication to provide effective pain relief for their client.

Incorrect answers:

a. Administering the prescribed dose without advocating for an increased dose may not provide effective pain relief for the client.

b. Administering a higher dose than prescribed without consulting with the physician could be unsafe and could potentially harm the client.

c. Refusing to administer medication and leaving the client in pain would violate their right to receive adequate pain management.