Which action by a psychiatric nurse best applies the ethical principle of autonomy?
Intervening when a self-mutilating patient attempts to harm self.
Exploring alternative solutions with the patient, who then makes a choice.
Staying with a patient demonstrating a high level of anxiety.
Suggesting that two patients who were fighting be restricted to the unit.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Intervening when a self-mutilating patient attempts to harm self reflects beneficence and nonmaleficence, prioritizing safety rather than autonomy.
B. Supporting the patient to explore alternatives and make their own choice directly respects and promotes the ethical principle of autonomy.
C. Staying with a patient demonstrating a high level of anxiety demonstrates beneficence by providing support, not autonomy.
D. Suggesting restrictions for patients who were fighting reflects justice or safety measures, not the patient’s personal decision-making.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Communication disorders involve difficulties with speech, language, or communication (e.g., stuttering, limited vocabulary). The main problem here is hyperactivity, not speech/language impairment.
B. ADHD is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Behaviors such as being in constant motion, excessive talking, lack of sustained interest in activities, and getting up early with energy are hallmark signs of hyperactive/impulsive type ADHD.
C. Intellectual development disorder (formerly mental retardation) involves below-average intellectual functioning and impaired adaptive skills, not constant hyperactivity and excessive talking.
D. Stereotypic movement disorder is repetitive, purposeless motor behavior (e.g., hand flapping, head banging), not generalized hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic with a lower risk of weight gain, metabolic syndrome, and hypertension compared with olanzapine or clozapine, making it suitable for a patient who is overweight and hypertensive. It effectively treats positive symptoms such as auditory hallucinations and may improve social functioning.
B. Olanzapine is effective for schizophrenia but is associated with significant weight gain, hyperlipidemia, and worsening hypertension, making it less appropriate for this patient.
C. Clozapine is reserved for treatment-resistant schizophrenia due to risks of agranulocytosis, myocarditis, and metabolic side effects; it is not first-line for this patient.
D. Ziprasidone has a lower risk of metabolic side effects than olanzapine or clozapine, but it carries a risk of QT prolongation, which may be concerning in hypertensive patients with potential cardiac risks.
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