A nurse tells a patient that they will return in 30 minutes with their medication. The nurse returns 30 minutes later with the patient's medication. Which ethical principle is she demonstrating?

A. The client must be calm and cooperative. Restraints should be removed as soon as the client is calm and no longer poses a threat to themselves or others. Continued use without justification can be considered unethical and unlawful.

B. The client must verbalize remorse for their behavior. Remorse is not a requirement for restraint removal. Some clients may lack insight into their actions due to mental illness or cognitive impairment. The focus should be on safety, not forced expressions of regret.

C. The client only verbalizes anger toward the staff. Expressing anger alone is not a justification for continued restraint. As long as the client is not aggressive or violent, they should not remain restrained.

D. The provider who prescribed the restraints must be present to assess the client before the restraints can be removed. Nurses can remove restraints without the provider physically present if the client meets the criteria for release. However, they must document the assessment and notify the provider.

A. Autonomy refers to a client’s right to make their own decisions regarding care. Allowing them to choose between morning and afternoon therapy respects their independence and decision-making ability.

B. Justice refers to fairness and equal treatment in healthcare. While offering a choice is ethical, it is not related to ensuring fair resource distribution.

C. Beneficence means acting in the best interest of the client to promote well-being. While giving choices can be beneficial, this scenario specifically highlights autonomy.

D. Nonmaleficence means "do no harm." While respecting choices can prevent distress, this principle is more related to avoiding harm rather than promoting independence.