A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about caring for a new colostomy. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

c. Veracity

The nurse is exhibiting the ethical concept of veracity by providing the client with truthful and accurate information about the purpose of the medication. Veracity refers to the obligation to tell the truth and provide information in an honest and transparent manner.

Explanation for the other options:

a .Accountability: Accountability refers to taking responsibility for one's actions and being answerable for the outcomes. While accountability is an important ethical concept for healthcare professionals, it is not directly demonstrated in this situation.

b. Autonomy: Autonomy refers to respecting an individual's right to make their own decisions and choices regarding their healthcare. While the nurse is providing information to the client, autonomy is not directly demonstrated in this situation.

d. Fidelity: Fidelity refers to being faithful and keeping promises or commitments made to clients. While

fidelity is an important ethical concept, it is not directly demonstrated in this situation.

e. Justice: Justice refers to fairness and the equitable distribution of healthcare resources. While justice is an important ethical concept, it is not directly demonstrated in this situation.

In this scenario, the nurse's action of providing truthful information to the client aligns with the ethical

concept of veracity.

The presence of alcohol on a nurse's breath raises concerns regarding impairment and the potential for compromised patient safety. It is crucial to prioritize patient safety and prevent any potential harm. Removing the nurse from the client care area ensures that immediate patient safety is addressed and minimizes the risk of any adverse events.

Call the supervisor to ask for another nurse: While involving the supervisor is important, it should not be the first action taken in this situation. The immediate priority is to address patient safety by removing the nurse from the client care area.

Assign clients to the remaining staff: Assigning clients to the remaining staff should not be the first action taken because it may compromise patient safety if the nurse in question is impaired. It is important to ensure that the nurse is removed from the client care area before reassigning the clients to other staff members.

Document objective findings about the situation: Documenting the objective findings about the situation is important for accurate record-keeping and reporting. However, it should not be the first action taken when immediate patient safety is at stake. Removing the nurse from the client care area is the priority.