Which of the following is an example of an ethical dilemma in nursing?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it presents a situation where a nurse must navigate conflicting values, such as respecting patient autonomy while upholding professional ethical standards. By complying with the patient's request, the nurse may compromise ethical principles. A: Choosing between two equally undesirable alternatives is a moral dilemma, not necessarily an ethical dilemma. B: Reporting a colleague's unethical behavior is an ethical obligation, not a dilemma. C: Balancing patient confidentiality with the need to disclose information is an ethical consideration, but it does not inherently present a dilemma as it can be managed through established guidelines.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a nurse working for two competing healthcare organizations creates a conflict of interest as they may prioritize one organization over the other. This could compromise patient care and violate ethical standards. A: Accepting gifts from a patient may be inappropriate but does not necessarily create a conflict of interest. C: Disclosing patient information without consent is a breach of confidentiality but not specifically a conflict of interest. D: Delegating tasks improperly is a violation of professional standards but does not directly relate to a conflict of interest.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Screening for hypertension. Secondary prevention aims to detect and treat a disease in its early stages to prevent further progression. Screening for hypertension helps identify individuals at risk and enables timely intervention to prevent complications. Administering flu vaccinations (A) is an example of primary prevention. Performing a mastectomy (C) is a treatment method for existing breast cancer, falling under tertiary prevention. Providing rehabilitation after surgery (D) focuses on restoring function post-treatment, also part of tertiary prevention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary focus of a patient safety program is to enhance patient satisfaction. This is because the ultimate goal of patient safety initiatives is to ensure that patients receive safe and high-quality care, leading to improved patient experience and satisfaction. By prioritizing patient safety, healthcare providers can build trust with patients, reduce medical errors, and prevent harm. Why other choices are incorrect: A: While reducing healthcare costs may be a positive outcome of a patient safety program, it is not the primary focus. B: Improving clinical outcomes is an important goal of patient safety programs, but it is not the primary focus as patient satisfaction encompasses a broader aspect of care. D: Compliance with regulatory standards is essential, but it is a means to achieve patient safety rather than the primary focus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because evidence-based management involves integrating managerial expertise with research evidence to make informed decisions. This approach ensures decisions are grounded in data and proven strategies, leading to more effective outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as it relies solely on personal experience, neglecting valuable external evidence. Choice C is incorrect as intuition alone may not always lead to optimal decisions. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses only on peer-reviewed literature, excluding the importance of combining it with managerial expertise.