Professionalism has historically been difficult to define. Early definitions of professionalism included which of the following characteristics?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Expertise. Professionalism is often associated with possessing a high level of expertise or specialized knowledge in a particular field. This expertise allows professionals to perform their duties effectively and competently. Early definitions of professionalism emphasized the importance of possessing the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in one's profession. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while empathy, ethical and moral values, and honesty are important characteristics of professionalism, they are not the defining factors. Empathy, ethics, and honesty are crucial components of professional behavior, but without expertise, a professional may not be able to effectively fulfill their responsibilities in their chosen field.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because nursing ethics primarily concern the ethical principles, duties, and rules of behavior that guide professional nurses in their practice. This includes aspects such as patient confidentiality, informed consent, and beneficence. A is incorrect because nursing ethics are not limited to the organizational level but extend to individual actions within the profession. C is incorrect as while moral character is important, nursing ethics are more about professional responsibilities and conduct. D is incorrect because while the experiences and needs of nurses are important, nursing ethics are primarily about how nurses interact with patients, families, and colleagues.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because ethical principles can indeed serve as the foundation for laws. Laws often reflect societal ethical values and principles. Ethical principles provide a moral framework that lawmakers may use to create laws that promote justice and fairness. By basing laws on ethical principles, societies aim to uphold shared values and promote good conduct. In contrast, A is incorrect as the government enforces laws, not ethics. B is incorrect because laws are legal rules, not ethical principles. C is incorrect as ethics are principles of right and wrong, not necessarily highly detailed.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The unit director should follow the institution's formal process for reporting and handling practices that jeopardize patient safety when dealing with an incompetent employee. 1. Firstly, it is important to prioritize patient safety above all else. 2. By following the institution's formal process, the director ensures that the proper steps are taken to address the incompetence effectively. 3. This approach also promotes transparency and accountability within the organization. 4. It aligns with ethical principles of duty to care and responsibility for patient well-being. The other choices are incorrect: A: Tolerating incompetence is not an acceptable approach as it can compromise patient safety. B: Incompetence can have broader impacts beyond the individual nurse, such as affecting patient outcomes and overall team performance. D: While nurse practice acts may provide guidance, the institution's specific procedures should be followed to address incompetence effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Battery. Battery refers to the intentional harmful or offensive touching of another person without consent. In this case, performing the surgery without obtaining informed consent from the client constitutes battery. The lack of signed consent implies the client did not agree to the procedure, making it an unauthorized touching. This is a clear violation of the client's rights and can lead to a charge of battery. False imprisonment (A) involves restricting someone's freedom of movement unlawfully, which is not applicable here. Libel (B) refers to written defamation, which is not relevant to the situation. Malpractice (D) involves professional negligence in providing healthcare, not obtaining consent before surgery would fall under battery rather than malpractice.