A nurse is caring for a terminally ill patient with questions regarding end-of-life care options.
The nurse provides an informational packet to the patient, and discusses the various care options available.
The nurse is demonstrating which professional value?

Choice A rationale:

Calling the physician to request an antianxiety medication might address the client's anxiety, but it does not directly respond to the client's existential question about God punishing them.

Choice B rationale:

Sharing personal religious beliefs with the client can be inappropriate and may not align with the client's beliefs, potentially causing discomfort or offense.

Choice C rationale:

Sitting quietly with the client and offering caring touch demonstrates empathy, compassion, and presence. It allows the nurse to provide emotional support without imposing personal beliefs or judgments. This approach encourages the client to express their feelings and facilitates a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client about a good worship center nearby does not directly address the client's existential question or provide emotional support. Additionally, the client may not be interested in religious activities at this moment.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse is not responsible since the nurse was following the doctor's orders. Rationale: While it is essential for nurses to follow physician orders, they also have a responsibility to assess the appropriateness and safety of those orders. If the nurse administers a medication that is clearly harmful or beyond the normal dosage, they have a duty to question the order and seek clarification from the physician. Administering a medication that is twice the normal dosage without questioning the order would be a breach of the nurse's responsibility.

Choice B rationale:

Only the nurse was responsible since the nurse administered the medication. Rationale: While the nurse did administer the medication, the ultimate responsibility lies with both the nurse and the physician. The nurse should have questioned the order if it appeared to be incorrect or unsafe. Nurses are advocates for their patients and have a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of those under their care.

Choice C rationale:

Both the nurse and the physician are responsible for the error. Rationale: This is the correct choice. Both the nurse and the physician share responsibility for the error. The nurse should have questioned the order, and the physician should have prescribed the correct dosage. Patient safety is a collaborative effort, and both healthcare providers are accountable for ensuring that the patient receives appropriate and safe care.

Choice D rationale:

Only the physician is responsible since he or she ordered the drug. Rationale: While the physician did order the drug, the nurse also has a responsibility to assess the order and question it if necessary. Nurses are trained to use their clinical judgment and critical thinking skills to ensure the safety of their patients. If the nurse administers a medication without questioning a clearly incorrect dosage, they share responsibility for the error.