Which intervention by a psychiatric nurse implements the ethical principle of autonomy?
Intervening when a client with a history of self-mutilation attempts to self-injure.
Suggesting that two clients who were fighting be restricted to the unit.
Staying with a client who is demonstrating a high level of anxiety.
Exploring alternative solutions with a client, who later chooses one alternative.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason
Intervening when a client attempts self-injury may be necessary to ensure the client's immediate safety. However, this action does not primarily implement the ethical principle of autonomy. Autonomy involves respecting the client's right to make their own decisions, including the right to refuse treatment. In cases of self-harm, the nurse must balance the ethical principles of autonomy and nonmaleficence (the duty to do no harm)
Choice B Reason
Suggesting restrictions for clients who were fighting might be a measure to maintain safety within the unit. However, this suggestion does not uphold the principle of autonomy, as it involves limiting the clients' freedom and choices. The ethical principle of autonomy emphasizes the clients' right to make independent choices and to control their own actions.
Choice C Reason
Staying with a client who is experiencing a high level of anxiety is a supportive action that can be therapeutic. While it demonstrates care and may provide comfort, it does not directly implement the principle of autonomy. Autonomy is about the capacity to make informed and voluntary decisions, and while support is important, it does not equate to enabling decision-making.
Choice D Reason
Exploring alternative solutions with a client and allowing them to choose an option embodies the ethical principle of autonomy. This approach respects the client's right to be involved in their own care and to make decisions based on their values and beliefs. It empowers the client to have control over their treatment and respects their capacity for self-determination.
In psychiatric nursing, respecting autonomy means acknowledging the client's right to make choices about their care and treatment. It involves providing all necessary information and supporting the client in making informed decisions. By exploring options and allowing the client to choose, the nurse facilitates autonomy and supports the client's right to direct their own care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
While hypertension can contribute to the development of PAD, it does not directly cause fats to deposit in the arteries. Hypertension can damage the arterial walls, making them more susceptible to atherosclerosis, but it is not the primary mechanism of PAD development.
Choice B Reason
Excess fats in the diet can contribute to atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of plaques in the arterial walls. However, the fats do not simply get stored; they combine with other substances, including calcium and inflammatory cells, to form plaques that can restrict blood flow.
Choice C Reason
This statement is the most accurate. PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaques formed by fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the blood. These plaques can harden and narrow the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the extremities. The process can be exacerbated by factors such as smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Arterial spasms can occur, but they are not the typical cause of chronic PAD. Spasms are more often associated with conditions like Raynaud's phenomenon or can be a response to stress or cold temperatures. PAD is usually a result of progressive atherosclerosis rather than intermittent spasms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A positive pregnancy test is crucial information that must be reported immediately as it has significant implications for the patient's health and treatment options. Pregnancy can impact the results of a Schilling's test, which is used to diagnose B12 deficiency anemia, as pregnancy itself can cause changes in B12 metabolism. Therefore, the healthcare provider must be informed to adjust the diagnostic approach and ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.
Choice B Reason:
While a hemoglobin level of 9.5 g/dL is below the normal range for adult females (11.6 to 15 g/dL) and a hematocrit of 32% is at the lower end of the normal range (36% to 44%)[^10^], these results are consistent with anemia but are not as immediately critical as a positive pregnancy test in the context of a Schilling's test.
Choice C Reason:
A glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) level of 7.5% is above the normal range (4% to 5.9%), indicating poor blood sugar control over the past two to three months, which could suggest diabetes or prediabetes. However, this is not as urgent as a positive pregnancy test when considering the administration of a Schilling's test.
Choice D Reason:
A serum cholesterol level of 237 mg/dL is considered borderline high (200 to 239 mg/dL), which may increase the risk of heart disease over time. However, this does not require immediate reporting in the context of a Schilling's test for B12 deficiency anemia as compared to a positive pregnancy test.
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