In a Behavioral Health Unit team meeting, a registered nurse Says, "l am concerned if we are behaving ethically by using restraint to prevent one patient from self-mutilation while the care plan for another patient who has also self-mutilated issues calls for one-on-one supervision."

Which ethical principle most clearly applies to this situation?

Refeeding syndrome is a potentially life-threatening complication that can occur when a person with anorexia nervosa or other forms of malnutrition begins to eat again after a period of starvation. It is characterized by electrolyte imbalances and fluid shifts that can lead to cardiovascular dysfunction, including heart failure and arrhythmias. Therefore, when caring for a patient with anorexia nervosa who is being refed, it is important for the nurse to closely monitor the patient’s cardiovascular system for signs of dysfunction.

Option a. Endocrine system dysfunction can occur in patients with anorexia nervosa, but it is not typically associated with refeeding syndrome.

Option b. Respiratory system dysfunction can occur in patients with anorexia nervosa, but it is not typically associated with refeeding syndrome.

Option c. Musculoskeletal system dysfunction can occur in patients with anorexia nervosa, but it is not typically associated with refeeding syndrome.

When caring for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is important for the nurse to understand that the client’s compulsive behaviors are a way for them to manage their anxiety and distress. Rather than trying to confront or eliminate these behaviors, the nurse should work with the client to develop a schedule that allows time for their rituals while also incorporating other activities and treatments.

Option a. Confront the client about the senseless nature of repetitive behaviors is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress.

Option b. Isolate the client for a period of time is not a helpful intervention because it does not address the underlying causes of the client’s compulsive behaviors.

Option d. Set very strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress and may interfere with their ability to participate in treatment.