ATI LPN
Current Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 52-year-old man sees you in follow-up after a radical prostatectomy. He had been fully informed about the risk of the procedure such as incontinence and impotence. Neither of these adverse effects occurs. While searching on the Web he finds that there is treatment without surgery involving the implantation of radioactive seeds or pellets in the prostate. He files suit against you because of an improper informed consent. What will be the most likely outcome of the suit?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Informed consent requires discussion of alternative treatments, not just risks of the chosen procedure.
Question 2 of 5
Melinda is a married 35-year-old pregnant childless woman who has lost four previous pregnancies between 16 and 23 weeks gestation. She currently has reached 23 weeks and 3 days of gestation, her fetus is seemingly healthy, and has an estimated weight of 550 grams (+/- 1.2 lbs). She has ruptured her bag of waters and is now having labor that seems unstoppable with tocolytics. Delivery seems inevitable. What is the physician's duty to inform the parents?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: At this gestational age, viability is uncertain, so parents need full information to decide between aggressive care or comfort measures.
Question 3 of 5
A 44-year-old psychology professor with a chronic history of rheumatoid arthritis presents for a follow-up examination. She is currently taking prednisone and infliximab, a regimen that has successfully stabilized her condition. Physical examination reveals no significant changes. Toward the end of the visit, she mentions that she would like to try acupuncture as an adjunct treatment in addition to the medications she is currently taking. What is the most appropriate response to her request?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Patients can choose adjunct treatments; asking why helps understand her reasoning and maintains a collaborative relationship.
Question 4 of 5
A senior resident attends a medical conference, at which a table sponsored by a drug company offers free flash drives for attendees. The resident needs a new flash drive for presentations and asks a friend whether it is appropriate to take one. The friend responds, 'I think it is okay. It is not an expensive item and it won't affect how you prescribe.' According to professional ethical guidelines, which of the following is the most appropriate course of action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: AMA guidelines allow only gifts that benefit patients; a flash drive for personal use does not qualify.
Question 5 of 5
A law made by the executive officers such as presidents and mayors.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Regulatory law refers to a set of rules and regulations created by executive officers, such as presidents and mayors, to govern specific industries or sectors. These laws are designed to ensure compliance with standards, protect public safety, and promote fair practices. Unlike common law, which is based on court decisions and legal precedents, regulatory law is created through the authority granted to executive officers by legislation. Statutory law, on the other hand, is created by legislative bodies.