A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is assigned to a multidisciplinary public health department. Which of the following independent actions by the LPN demonstrate adherence to legal and ethical standards of practice? (Select all that apply.)
- Serving as a witness to a client's signature on a procedural consent form after the provider has explained the intervention.Answer
- BDetailing the potential surgical risks and alternative treatment options to a client who expresses uncertainty about an upcoming procedure.
- CAccepting delegation to complete the initial comprehensive nursing care plan for a high-risk client newly transferred to the department.
- Declining to disclose a client's positive sexually transmitted infection status to a caller identifying themselves as the client's spouse.Answer
- EDelaying a mandated report of suspected child abuse until corroborating physical proof can be independently obtained by the clinic staff.
- Notifying the healthcare provider and documenting the event when a competent adult client refuses a prescribed prophylactic antibiotic.Answer
Answer
The correct actions are serving as a witness to a consent signature, declining to disclose health information to an unverified caller, and documenting a competent client's refusal of treatment.
The correct actions demonstrate a thorough understanding of LPN scope of practice and legal mandates. The LPN's role in informed consent is to witness the signature only after the provider has fulfilled the duty of explanation. Furthermore, protecting patient confidentiality requires withholding protected health information from unauthorized individuals over the phone, and respecting client autonomy requires honoring and documenting a competent adult's right to refuse medication.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Legal and Ethical Practice Boundaries for the LPN