Ethics in Nursing and Patient Care

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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'autonomy' refer to in an ethical context?

Ensuring equal treatment under law

The right for self-determination and freedom of choice (correct)

Taking actions to promote good health

Avoiding harm in decision-making

Which of the following describes moral distress?

Questioning the necessity of morality in practice

Feeling powerless to stop an immoral act witnessed

Knowing the right action but facing organizational constraints (correct)

Being unsure about which moral principles apply

What is a characteristic of moral uncertainty?

Unsure about which moral principles or values apply (correct)

Witnessing an immoral act and feeling powerless

Understanding the right course of action but unable to act

Feeling indifferent towards moral decisions

What should a nurse do if a patient refuses to sign consent?

Address the patient's concerns and maintain open communication Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is violated when offering unequal resources to a low-income family?

Justice Signup and view all the answers

What does the ethical principle of nonmaleficence emphasize?

Avoiding harm in actions Signup and view all the answers

In an ethical dilemma, what does moral outrage refer to?

Witnessing an immoral act and feeling powerless to stop it Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions exemplifies beneficence?

Taking actions that promote a patient's health Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of law and legislation in medicine?

To protect patient rights and nurse responsibilities Signup and view all the answers

What type of law does the Tennessee state nurse practice act represent?

Statutory law Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines ethics in the context of nursing?

A systematic study of conduct and actions pertaining to self and others Signup and view all the answers

What are the possible consequences of a nurse found guilty of a civil act?

Monetary damages and fines Signup and view all the answers

What could happen if a nurse is found guilty of committing a criminal act?

They may face penalties including fines or imprisonment Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a civil act a nurse could commit?

Violating a patient's rights leading to compensation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is associated with criminal law in nursing?

Practicing without a valid nursing license Signup and view all the answers

What does the code of ethics in nursing primarily provide?

A guide for conducting ethical nursing practice Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ethics Definition

Ethics is the systematic study of what a person's conduct and actions should be regarding themselves, other individuals, and the environment.
It involves justifying what is right or good and examining how a person's life and relationships should be.

Nursing Ethical Dilemmas

Moral Indifference: An individual questions the necessity of morality in practice.
Moral Uncertainty/Conflict: An individual is unsure which moral principles or values apply, possibly uncertain about the moral problem itself.
Moral Distress: An individual knows the right action but organizational constraints hinder them from taking that course.
Moral Outrage: An individual witnesses another's immoral act but feels powerless to stop it.

Address the patient's concerns and provide them with all necessary information.
Maintain open communication, show empathy, and respect the patient's autonomy.
Help the patient explore other options.

Ethical Terms

Autonomy: Promotes the right to self-determination and freedom of choice.
Beneficence: Actions taken to promote good.
Justice: Treating equals equally and unequals according to their differences.
Nonmaleficence: Actions taken to avoid harm.
Confidentiality: Keeping privileged information private.

ANA Code of Ethics with Interpretive Statements

Outlines the important general values, duties, and responsibilities that come with being a nurse.
Serves as a guide for carrying out nursing responsibilities in a way that aligns with quality nursing care and the ethical obligations of the profession.
It's not legally binding but functions as a guide for the highest ethical practice standards in nursing and aids in moral thinking.

Purpose of Healthcare Laws and Regulations

Primarily to protect the patient and the nurse.
Define the scope of acceptable practice and protect individual rights.
Nurses who understand their legal rights and duties can better shield themselves from liability or loss of professional licensure.

TN State Nurse Practice Act

An example of a statute (rule, law, and regulation).

Types of Law

Civil Law: Deals with legal issues between individuals, like malpractice or negligence. Consequences include monetary damages.
Criminal Law: Involves actions considered offenses against the state or public. Consequences include incarceration, probation, and fines.
Federal/Administrative Law: Rules and regulations issued by local, state, and federal governments.

Example of a Civil Act

A nurse violates a patient's rights and must pay compensation.

Example of a Criminal Act

Intentionally administering a fatal dose of medication.

Key Fact: Federal Law

Includes nationwide rules like patient privacy (HIPAA), anti-discrimination (ADA), and workforce safety.

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Description

Explore the ethical principles and dilemmas faced by nursing professionals. This quiz covers various concepts, including moral indifference, moral distress, and the importance of patient consent. Test your understanding of how ethics plays a crucial role in healthcare decision-making.