A nurse on an inpatient mental health unit is caring for a group of clients. Which of the following actions by the nurse demonstrates the ethical concept of autonomy?
Spending extra time to calm an agitated client
Ensuring that a client understands expectations for group participation
Describing the adverse effects of a client's medications
Importing a client's wishes to refuse prescribed treatments
The Correct Answer is D
Autonomy is the ethical principle that upholds an individual's right to make decisions about their own care and treatment. Respecting autonomy means acknowledging and honoring a person's right to make choices based on their own values, beliefs, and preferences. By importing a client's wishes to refuse prescribed treatments, the nurse is recognizing and respecting the client's autonomy. This shows that the nurse values the client's right to make decisions about their own healthcare and supports their choice, even if it may differ from what the nurse may recommend.
Incorrect:
A. Spending extra time to calm an agitated client demonstrates the ethical principle of beneficence, which is the duty to promote the well-being and welfare of the client.
B. Ensuring that a client understands expectations for group participation relates to the ethical principle of fidelity, which involves maintaining trust and keeping promises to the client.
C. Describing the adverse effects of a client's medications is important for informed consent and promoting understanding, but it does not directly involve the client's autonomy unless it is accompanied by a discussion of the client's choices and preferences regarding medication.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The response "It sounds like you're having a difficult time" acknowledges the client's distress and validates their experience. It demonstrates empathy and shows the nurse's willingness to listen and provide support. This response encourages the client to express their feelings and concerns further, facilitating open communication and a therapeutic relationship.
The response "Why do you think you are so anxious?" may come across as confrontational or intrusive. It puts the client on the spot and may make them feel defensive or uncomfortable. It is important to create a supportive environment where the client feels safe to share their experiences without judgment.
The response "Everyone has trouble sleeping at times" minimizes the client's concerns and may invalidate their feelings. It does not address the client's anxiety or offer any support or guidance.
The response "Have you talked to your provider about this yet?" is a helpful question to explore whether the client has sought professional help. However, it should be used after acknowledging the client's difficulties and showing empathy. It can be part of a conversation about accessing appropriate care and resources.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Dissociation is a defense mechanism in which a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity as a way to cope with overwhelming or traumatic experiences. In this case, the client's inability to remember anything that happened after seeing the suspects in the stabbing is a form of dissociation. It is a way for the client to psychologically distance themselves from the traumatic event and protect themselves from the emotional distress associated with it.
A- Projection is a defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own undesirable thoughts, feelings, or impulses onto someone else.
C- Repression is a defense mechanism where disturbing or unacceptable thoughts, memories, or feelings are pushed into the unconscious mind.
D- Sublimation is a defense mechanism where unacceptable impulses or emotions are redirected into socially acceptable activities.
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