Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because denying the older person with Alzheimer's disease the right to ambulate violates their autonomy by restricting their freedom to make choices about their own body and movement. Autonomy is the ethical principle that respects an individual's right to make decisions about their own health and well-being. In this situation, the person should have the autonomy to decide whether or not they want to ambulate, even if they have advanced Alzheimer's disease. Choice B is incorrect because the mentally competent adult has the right to refuse medical treatment based on their beliefs, which is an expression of autonomy. Choice C is incorrect because the mentally competent visitor has the right to refuse examination, which is also an expression of autonomy. Choice D is incorrect because the mentally competent adult has the right to refuse a local anesthetic, which is also an expression of autonomy.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Acknowledge the clinical expertise of the upset nurse - This shows respect for the upset nurse's experience and expertise. Step 2: Clearly explain the expectations for teamwork - Setting clear expectations fosters a collaborative environment. Step 3: Emphasize open, honest communication - Encouraging open dialogue helps address concerns and build trust among the team. Overall, option D is the best approach as it combines acknowledging the upset nurse's expertise, setting expectations for teamwork, and promoting open communication, which are crucial for gaining trust and respect among the nursing staff. Summary of other choices: A: Sending memos excludes the upset nurse and may create further resentment. B: Transferring the upset nurse does not address the issue and may lead to more conflict. C: Assigning the upset nurse to unrelated committees may isolate them and not address the underlying problem of lack of trust and respect on the unit.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because professional development opportunities supported through paid leave and tuition reimbursement are crucial for a nurse's growth. This allows for continuous learning, skill enhancement, and career advancement. It indicates that the organization values its nurses and invests in their development. The other choices, A, C, and D, while important in their own right, do not directly address the nurse's growth and professional development. Choice A focuses on the philosophy of care, not personal growth. Choice C is mainly about compensation, not professional development. Choice D pertains to workforce planning, not individual career advancement.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the media in M*A*S*H showed how nurses coped with the horrors of war through humor, highlighting their resilience and adaptability. This is a positive portrayal of nurses as capable and strong individuals. Choices A and B are incorrect as they misrepresent the values and professionalism of nurses. Choice A promotes negative stereotypes, while choice B undermines the importance of compassion in nursing. Choice D is incorrect as the show primarily focused on female nurses, not male nurses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant for their wrongful actions. In this case, the hospital's negligence in performing wrong site surgery resulted in harm to the client, even though the hospital reversed the charges. The court awarded $5 million to punish the hospital for their negligence, as the client suffered emotional distress and the potential risk of harm. The other choices are incorrect because: A: res ipsa loquitur is a legal doctrine used to shift the burden of proof from the plaintiff to the defendant in cases where the negligence is obvious. C: vicarious liability holds an employer responsible for the actions of their employees, which is not directly applicable in this scenario. D: immunity refers to protection from legal liability, which is not relevant in a case where the court awarded monetary compensation.