ATI RN
Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A family requests that no additional heroic measures be instituted for their terminally ill mother who has advance directives in place. The nurse respects this decision in keeping with the principle of:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: autonomy. Autonomy refers to respecting the right of individuals to make their own decisions about their healthcare. In this scenario, the family's request to honor the terminally ill mother's advance directives aligns with the principle of autonomy as it acknowledges her right to make decisions about her own care. Accountability (A) pertains to taking responsibility for one's actions, nonmaleficence (C) involves avoiding harm, and veracity (D) refers to truthfulness. While these principles are important in healthcare, in this specific case, autonomy takes precedence as it respects the patient's wishes.
Question 2 of 5
During a seminar on ethics, the educator realizes that more information is needed when a participant describes which situation as a violation of the ethical principle of autonomy?
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.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assigned to a unit where 95% of all patients required total care. Most days the assistive personnel are able to complete their assignments and provide high-quality care. A patient returning from a procedure was somehow "skipped" when daily baths were performed and requests that her care now be provided. The nurse discovers the bed is rumpled and damp. The RN joins with some other staff to bathe the patient, change the bed, and help make the patient comfortable. These staff members are demonstrating:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: altruism. Altruism is the selfless concern for the wellbeing of others, which is demonstrated by the staff members helping the patient in need without hesitation. In this scenario, the staff members are putting the patient's needs above their own, showing compassion and empathy. This aligns with the principle of altruism in nursing, where caregivers prioritize the welfare of their patients. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Veracity refers to truthfulness and honesty. While these are important traits in nursing, they are not the focus of the staff members' actions in this scenario. C: Autonomy is the right of individuals to make decisions about their own care. In this situation, the patient is not exercising autonomy, but rather relying on the staff for assistance. D: Whistle-blowing involves reporting unethical or illegal behavior within an organization. There is no indication of any wrongdoing that would require whistle-blowing in this scenario.
Question 4 of 5
A priority action for the nurse who works with culturally diverse clients is completion of a:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: cultural self-assessment. This is important as it helps the nurse understand their own beliefs, values, and biases, which can impact how they interact with culturally diverse clients. By being self-aware, the nurse can better recognize and address any potential cultural misunderstandings or conflicts. A: Taking a sign language course is not the priority as not all culturally diverse clients are deaf or use sign language. C: While cultural client assessment is important, it is secondary to the nurse understanding their own cultural biases first. D: Taking a course on how to speak Spanish is helpful but may not address the broader cultural competence needed to work with diverse clients.
Question 5 of 5
Which statement is true regarding health care for minorities?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer A is correct: 1. Federal legislation such as the Affordable Care Act has expanded Medicaid coverage and provided subsidies for health insurance. 2. This legislation has helped reduce the number of minorities lacking health insurance. 3. Consequently, fewer minorities than members of the general population now lack health insurance. 4. Therefore, the statement that federal legislation has resulted in fewer minorities lacking health insurance is true. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B. This choice incorrectly attributes the lack of seeking health care by minorities solely to higher costs and lower wages, overlooking the impact of legislation. C. This choice makes a sweeping generalization about Mexican Americans without considering the broader context of health care access for minorities. D. This choice relies on stereotypes about Asians and does not take into account the complexities of the health care system and insurance coverage.