Match each core ethical principle to the clinical scenario that best demonstrates its application in nursing practice.
- AutonomyA nurse respects a competent client's decision to refuse a life-saving blood transfusion.
- BeneficenceA nurse administers prescribed pain medication to a client recovering from abdominal surgery.
- JusticeA nurse provides the same high quality of care to all clients, regardless of their health insurance status.
- FidelityA nurse returns to a client's room in 30 minutes to evaluate their pain level, exactly as promised.
Answer
Autonomy pairs with respecting the refusal of a blood transfusion; Beneficence pairs with administering pain medication; Justice pairs with providing equal care regardless of insurance; Fidelity pairs with returning exactly as promised.
Each clinical scenario directly illustrates one of the foundational ethical principles of nursing. Autonomy focuses on the client's independence in decision-making; Beneficence focuses on taking action to help and do good; Justice focuses on fairness and equality in care delivery; and Fidelity focuses on trust and keeping promises.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Core Ethical Principles in Nursing