ATI RN
Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A researcher calculated the risk-to-benefit ratio and concluded that no harmful effects were associated with a survey of college sophomores. The researcher was applying the principles of:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: beneficence. Beneficence refers to the ethical principle of maximizing benefits and minimizing harm in research. In this scenario, the researcher calculated the risk-to-benefit ratio and concluded that no harmful effects were associated with the survey of college sophomores. By considering the well-being of the research participants and ensuring that the benefits outweigh any potential risks, the researcher demonstrated the application of beneficence. Summary: Choice A is correct because it aligns with the ethical principle of beneficence in research. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the consideration of risks and benefits in research involving human participants.
Question 2 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 3 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 4 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.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is preparing to teach a class related to risk factors for cancer to a diverse ethnic group attending a health fair. The nurse should be aware:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it provides accurate information about a specific risk factor related to a particular ethnic group. American-Indian women do have a higher rate of ovarian cancer than the general population, making it crucial for the nurse to be aware of this when teaching about cancer risk factors. A is incorrect as it discusses breast cancer and not ovarian cancer. B is incorrect as it mentions esophageal cancer, which is not the specific focus of the question. D is also incorrect as it makes a general statement about cancer, heart disease, and stroke in ethnic groups without providing specific information about ovarian cancer in American-Indian women.