A nurse is providing care for a surgeon on a medical-surgical unit. A nurse from another unit asks the nurse about the surgeon's medical diagnosis. The nurse responds that he is unable to provide the information requested. The nurse is displaying which of the following ethical principles?
Utility
Non-maleficence
Paternalism
Justice
The Correct Answer is B
Answer: B. Non-maleficence
Rationale:
A. Utility:
The principle of utility refers to actions that maximize the overall good or benefit for the greatest number of people. In this scenario, the nurse’s refusal to share the surgeon's medical diagnosis does not directly relate to maximizing benefits, so this principle is not applicable.
B. Non-maleficence:
Non-maleficence is the ethical principle that involves the obligation to avoid causing harm to others. By not disclosing the surgeon's medical diagnosis, the nurse is protecting the surgeon's privacy and confidentiality, thereby preventing potential harm that could arise from sharing sensitive health information without consent.
C. Paternalism:
Paternalism refers to making decisions for others with the belief that it is in their best interest, often overriding their autonomy. The nurse's action of withholding information is not based on deciding what is best for the other nurse but rather on adhering to confidentiality principles.
D. Justice:
Justice in healthcare refers to fairness in the distribution of resources and treatment. The situation does not pertain to equitable treatment or allocation of resources, so this principle is not relevant in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer: D. A private room in a quiet location on the unit
Rationale:
A) A private room close to the nursing station: While proximity to the nursing station can facilitate monitoring, a room close to a busy area may lead to increased stimuli and noise, which can exacerbate the client’s manic symptoms.
B) A semi-private room with a roommate who has a similar diagnosis: Sharing a room with another client experiencing mania could lead to increased stimulation and competition for attention, potentially worsening the manic phase for both clients.
C) A seclusion room until the client's activity level becomes more subdued: Seclusion is typically used as a last resort for managing severe agitation or aggression. It may not be necessary or appropriate for all clients in a manic phase, especially if the client can be safely managed in a less restrictive environment.
D) A private room in a quiet location on the unit: This option is ideal as it provides the client with a calm environment, minimizing external stimuli that could trigger or escalate manic behaviors. A quiet space can help promote a sense of safety and allow the client to regain control over their emotions and behavior.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The client runs 4 miles outdoors every afternoon: Exercise, especially in hot weather, can lead to dehydration and increased sweating, which can result in decreased lithium excretion and increased lithium levels in the blood, leading to toxicity. Therefore, this factor puts the client at risk for lithium toxicity.
B. The client eats 2 to 3 g of sodium-containing foods: Sodium intake can affect lithium levels, as high sodium levels can increase lithium excretion and lower lithium levels. Therefore, eating sodium-containing foods is less likely to contribute to lithium toxicity.
C. The client eats foods high in tyramine: Tyramine-rich foods can interact with certain medications, such as MAOIs, but they do not directly increase the risk of lithium toxicity.
D. The client drinks 2 liters of liquids daily: Adequate hydration is important for clients taking lithium, as dehydration can increase lithium levels. Therefore, drinking 2 liters of liquids daily is not a risk factor for lithium toxicity.
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