A nurse is reviewing unintentional and intentional torts. Which of the following clinical situations would the nurse identify as an example of assault?
The laboratory technician restrains the arm of a client refusing to have blood drawn so that the specimen can be obtained.
The primary health care provider tells a client that the nurse "does not know anything.”
The nurse restrains a client at bedtime because the client gets up during the night and wanders around.
The nurse tells a client that he will be tied down if he tries to get up from the chair.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
This situation represents an example of assault. Assault is the threat of bodily harm or unwanted physical contact, which creates an apprehension of fear in the victim. In this case, the laboratory technician's actions of restraining the client's arm against their will for blood drawing without consent is a form of assault as it involves an intentional act causing fear of harm.
Choice B rationale:
While telling a client that the nurse "does not know anything" is unprofessional and disrespectful, it doesn't constitute assault. This scenario is more related to issues of communication and respect rather than a direct threat of physical harm.
Choice C rationale:
Restraining a client at bedtime to prevent wandering is not assault. This scenario might involve ethical considerations and the appropriate use of restraints, but it doesn't meet the legal definition of assault, which involves a threat of physical harm.
Choice D rationale:
Threatening to tie down a client if they try to get up from the chair is an example of assault. This action creates an apprehension of fear in the client by implying a physically harmful act. It's a direct threat that falls under the category of assault.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Visual observation for nonverbal signs of pain can be useful, especially in patients who are unable to communicate verbally. However, this method is not as accurate or reliable as obtaining the client's self-report of pain severity, which directly allows the patient to express their experience.
Choice B rationale:
Vital sign measurement, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, can provide indirect information about a patient's pain level. However, vital signs can be influenced by various factors, including anxiety or other physiological responses. They may not always accurately reflect the intensity of pain and are not as specific as the client's self-report.
Choice C rationale:
The client's self-report of pain severity is the most reliable and accurate method for determining the intensity of pain. Pain is a subjective experience, and the client's self-report is crucial for effective pain management. Pain scales, such as numeric rating scales or visual analog scales, allow clients to describe their pain intensity in a standardized way.
Choice D rationale:
The nature and invasiveness of the surgical procedure are relevant factors to consider in understanding a patient's potential pain experience. However, this information alone is not sufficient for determining the current intensity of the client's pain. Pain levels can vary among individuals undergoing the same procedure due to differences in pain tolerance and perception.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should avoid assessing the popliteal pulse bilaterally at the same time. The popliteal pulse is located behind the knee and is relatively deep. Applying pressure on both sides of the knee to assess this pulse simultaneously can obstruct blood flow to the lower extremities. This is a particularly important consideration for clients with compromised circulation, such as those with peripheral vascular disease. Assessing this pulse sequentially is a safer approach.
Choice A rationale:
Assessing the femoral pulse bilaterally at the same time is generally acceptable. The femoral pulse is located in the groin area, and assessing it bilaterally doesn't impede blood flow significantly.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the brachial pulse bilaterally at the same time is generally acceptable. The brachial pulse is located in the upper arm, and simultaneous assessment is unlikely to cause circulatory compromise.
Choice D rationale:
Assessing the carotid pulse bilaterally at the same time is discouraged. The carotid arteries are located in the neck, and applying bilateral pressure here can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain, potentially causing syncope (fainting) or other adverse effects. It's safer to assess this pulse sequentially.
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