A nurse is providing care for a surgeon on a medical-surgical unit. A nurse from another unit asks the nurse about the surgeon's medical diagnosis. The nurse responds that he is unable to provide the information requested. The nurse is displaying which of the following ethical principles?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Nonmaleficence. The nurse is displaying the ethical principle of nonmaleficence by refusing to disclose the surgeon's medical diagnosis without consent, as it could potentially harm the surgeon's privacy and confidentiality. Nonmaleficence emphasizes the obligation to avoid causing harm or injury to others. By respecting the surgeon's right to privacy, the nurse is upholding this principle. A: Utility is the principle of maximizing benefits for the greatest number of people, which is not relevant in this scenario. B: Paternalism involves making decisions for others based on what is believed to be in their best interest, but in this case, the nurse is respecting the surgeon's autonomy. C: Justice is about fairness and equal treatment, which is not directly applicable to the nurse's response in this situation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A child post-appendectomy requires close monitoring for complications like infection or bleeding. Placing them with a child with a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus would be appropriate as both may need monitoring and interventions related to their conditions. Choices A, B, and C involve conditions that do not directly relate to post-appendectomy care and would not benefit from being placed together.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates negligence by failing to promptly report a concerning finding, which could lead to harm. The nurse's delay in notifying the provider increases the risk of complications for the client. Option B involves deception and administration of medication without consent, which is a violation of the client's autonomy and not negligence. Option C involves inappropriate use of restraints against a competent client's wishes, violating autonomy and not negligence. Option D involves a threat of restraints to enforce dietary restrictions, which is not appropriate but also not a clear example of negligence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assessing a client who experiences unilateral calf pain when ambulating. This is the priority action because unilateral calf pain can be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition. The nurse should assess the client immediately to rule out DVT and prevent complications. Choice A is incorrect because taking a telephone prescription can be delegated to another qualified staff member, and it is not an urgent priority. Choice C is incorrect because reinforcing a dressing for an above-the-knee amputation, while important, is not as urgent as assessing for a potential DVT. Choice D is incorrect because reassuring the partner of a client with a closed head injury, while supportive, is not the priority compared to assessing a client with potential DVT.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the client to verbalize questions. This action demonstrates client advocacy by empowering the client to ask questions, express concerns, and actively participate in their care. It promotes informed decision-making and ensures that the client's needs and preferences are considered. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not prioritize the client's autonomy, rights, and well-being. Insisting the client take prescribed medications (B) disregards the client's right to make decisions about their own care. Informing the client that the medication is the same as taken at home (C) may not address the client's individual concerns or preferences. Telling the client that refusal of the medication is considered noncompliance (D) can be coercive and does not respect the client's right to refuse treatment.