A practical nurse (PN) is reviewing the legal and ethical guidelines of nursing practice on a medical-surgical unit. Which of the following actions by the PN are legally and ethically appropriate? Select all that apply.
- Witnessing a client's signature on a surgical consent form after the provider has completed the explanation.Answer
- Declining a delegated task from the charge nurse to administer an intravenous push (IVP) cardiac medication.Answer
- CExplaining the potential complications of an upcoming procedure to a client who has questions before signing the consent form.
- DDiscussing a client's complex medical history with an unassigned colleague while riding in the public hospital elevator.
- EAccepting an assignment to perform the comprehensive admission assessment and formulate the initial care plan for a new client.
- FWaiting to report suspected physical abuse of a vulnerable adult until concrete proof can be obtained from the family.
Answer
The legally and ethically appropriate actions are witnessing a client's signature on a surgical consent form after the provider's explanation, and declining to administer an intravenous push (IVP) cardiac medication.
The practical nurse acts within their legal and ethical scope by witnessing informed consent only after the provider has explained the procedure, and by refusing delegated tasks that require advanced assessment, such as administering intravenous push medications.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Practical Nurse Scope of Practice, Confidentiality, and Mandated Reporting