A patient in a clinical research study has given informed consent. This means that the patient has certain rights. These rights include which of the following? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: protection from harm. Informed consent ensures that patients are aware of the potential risks and benefits of participating in a study and that they are protected from harm. This includes measures to minimize risks and ensure their safety throughout the study. Confidentiality (A) is important but not directly related to informed consent. Free medical care (B) is not a guaranteed right in research studies and is not a component of informed consent. Refusal to participate (C) is generally a right granted through informed consent, but the primary focus is on protecting participants from harm.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because Maslow's theory of hierarchy of needs can guide nurses in assessing and prioritizing patients' needs during the nursing process. By understanding that basic physiological needs must be met before addressing higher-level needs, nurses can provide holistic care. Choice B is incorrect because Maslow's theory focuses on fundamental human needs, not specifically healthcare needs. Choice C is incorrect as the theory can be applied to all individuals, regardless of age. Choice D is incorrect because Maslow's theory is relevant to all patients, not just those who are ill.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: the institutional ethics committee. The ethics committee is the appropriate source for handling ethical dilemmas as they are trained to provide guidance on complex ethical issues in healthcare settings. They can review the situation, consider various perspectives, and provide recommendations based on ethical principles and standards. In this case, the nurse can consult the ethics committee to evaluate the practice of ordering unnecessary tests and determine the most ethical course of action. Summary of other choices: A: the patient's family - While the family may have valuable input, they may not have the expertise to resolve ethical dilemmas in healthcare settings. B: the admitting physician - The physician may have limited perspective and may not be impartial in making decisions regarding routine testing. C: the nurse in charge of the unit - The nurse may have insights but may not have the authority or expertise to handle complex ethical dilemmas effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: competent practice. This is the nurse's best legal safeguard because it ensures that the nurse is providing care within their scope of practice, following standards of care, and adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. Competent practice minimizes the risk of errors, negligence, and malpractice lawsuits. Collective bargaining (A) pertains to labor negotiations, not legal safeguards. Written or implied contracts (B) are important but do not solely protect the nurse legally. Patient education (D) is crucial but not the nurse's primary legal safeguard.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: evidence that learning has occurred. This is the most critical element as it demonstrates the effectiveness of the teaching. Evidence of learning ensures that the patient has understood the information and can apply it. Without this evidence, it is difficult to assess the impact of the teaching. A summary of the teaching plan (choice A) is important for organization but does not directly show if learning has occurred. The implementation of the teaching plan (choice B) is necessary but does not guarantee learning. Patient need for learning (choice C) is important to consider but does not assess if learning has actually taken place.