A nurse is preparing an in-service presentation about preventing health care associated infections (HAIs).
The nurse should include which of the following as a common cause of these infections?

A lack of insurance or lack of sufficient insurance is a huge barrier in accessing health care. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, uninsured people are less likely to receive preventive care and services for major health conditions and chronic diseases. They also face greater difficulties in affording care and paying medical bills.

Choice B is wrong because politics is not the only factor that affects the availability and affordability of health insurance. Other factors include income, employment status, age, health status, and geographic location. Nurses have a professional and ethical responsibility to advocate for the health needs of their clients and communities, which may involve engaging with political issues. Choice C is wrong because language is not the only problem for uninsured or underinsured clients. Other problems include cost, access, quality, and continuity of care. Language barriers may affect communication and understanding between clients and providers, but they can be addressed by using interpreters, translators, or culturally competent staff.

Choice D is wrong because the Joint Commission does not regulate insurance coverage. The Joint Commission is an independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies health care organizations and programs in the United States. It sets standards for quality and safety of care, but it does not determine who is eligible for insurance or what benefits are covered.

Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle of doing no harm or preventing harm to a client. It is based on the Hippocratic oath of “primum non nocere” or “first, do no harm”. It means that the nurse should act in the best interest of the client and avoid any actions that could cause injury or suffering.

Choice B. Fidelity is the ethical principle of being faithful and loyal to a client.

It means that the nurse should keep promises, respect confidentiality, and maintain trust.

Choice C. Justice is the ethical principle of treating clients fairly and equally.

It means that the nurse should distribute resources and services based on the client’s needs and not on personal biases.

Choice D. Autonomy is the ethical principle of respecting a client’s right to make their own decisions.

It means that the nurse should inform the client of their options and support their choices, as long as they do not harm others.