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Difficulty: EasyEthical Practice

A 32-year-old client is scheduled for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy and appears highly anxious. The client asks the nurse, "Is there a chance I could die during this surgery?" Which response by the nurse best demonstrates the ethical principle of veracity while maintaining a therapeutic relationship?

  1. Every surgical procedure carries some degree of risk. What specific concerns do you have about the operation?Answer
  2. B
    You have absolutely nothing to worry about; this is a very routine and safe procedure.
  3. C
    Why are you focusing on negative outcomes when you are otherwise young and healthy?
  4. D
    I will ask the nursing assistant to stay with you and answer your questions while you calm down.

Answer

The nurse should honestly acknowledge that all surgeries have some risk, followed by an open-ended question to explore the client's specific concerns.
The correct answer upholds the ethical principle of veracity (truthfulness) by honestly validating that surgery involves risk, rather than lying to the client. Furthermore, it incorporates therapeutic communication by using an open-ended statement to help the client verbalize their specific fears.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core ethical principle requested in the stem.
The question asks for the principle of veracity (truth-telling).
Understanding the specific ethical requirement eliminates options that lie or minimize the truth.
2
Evaluate the options for therapeutic communication techniques.
The correct response must avoid false reassurance, defensive questioning, or improper delegation.
Ethical practice must be delivered in a manner that supports the client's psychosocial integrity.
3
Select the option that combines honesty with emotional support.
The option acknowledging the degree of risk and asking about specific concerns is selected.
It fulfills the requirement for veracity while maintaining a therapeutic environment.

Key Concept

Veracity and Therapeutic Communication
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Ethical Practice

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