Deck 4: Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

Question 1

The nurse acknowledges that a formal contract be legally changed if there is:

A)the development of another formal contract
B)a discussion by parties involved that implied consensus
C)an intervention by an official of the judicial system
D)a verbal or written agreement by all involved parties

Answer 1

the development of another formal contract

Question 2

Nurses must be aware that disciplinary action by the state board of nursing can include such things as fines,suspension of nursing licensure,and:

A)mandatory reeducation in the area of the violation
B)revocation of nursing license
C)immediate retaking of the NCLEX
D)a minimum of 1,000 hours of community service

Answer 2

revocation of nursing license

Question 3

Nurses work under the nursing practice act within their state of employment.The nurse should be aware that this represents which type of law?

A)administrative
B)constitutional
C)criminal
D)statutory

Answer 3

statutory

Question 4

Nursing practice acts are created and governed under what type of law?

A)administrative
B)constitutional
C)criminal
D)statutory

Question 5

What type of law concerns the individual's relationship to the state?

A)civil
B)contract
C)public
D)tort

Question 6

A breach in criminal law involving a crime of a serious nature is committed.The punishment of incarceration at a state or federal prison for more than 1 year is given.This is an example of which type of criminal law?

A)assault
B)battery
C)felony
D)misdemeanor

Question 7

Under which of these charges could a nurse lose his or her license and be imprisoned for more than a year?

A)felony
B)misdemeanor
C)libel
D)negligence

Question 8

The enforcement of duties and rights of individuals independent of contractual agreements that involves a civil wrong committed by a person against another person or property is an example of:

A)crime
B)felony
C)misdemeanor
D)tort

Question 9

In which of the following cases could a recent nursing graduate,if sued,be found liable for not adhering to the standards of practice for a procedure the nurse had never before performed alone?

A)following the procedure as described in the facility's policy and procedure manual
B)recognizing signs and symptoms of an adverse reaction within 10 minutes of initial symptoms
C)requesting help from another nurse after stopping the procedure
D)stopping the procedure upon recognizing an adverse reaction

Question 10

A breach in criminal law that results in punishment of incarceration at a state or federal prison for less than 1 year is given.This is an example of which type of criminal law?

A)assault
B)battery
C)felony
D)misdemeanor

Question 11

Public law is developed by persons appointed to government administrative agencies that must enforce the laws passed by the legislature.The Social Security Act is an example of which type of law?

A)administrative
B)constitutional
C)criminal
D)statutory

Question 12

Which of these statements about the relationship of the Good Samaritan Act and health care professionals is TRUE?

A)They are compared to any other caregiver at the scene of an emergency.
B)They are expected to provide care as would another professional with the same background and education.
C)They are required to stop at the scene of accidents to render aid to injured persons.
D)They are to be paid for service rendered at an emergency scene.

Question 13

Which of these laws protects off-duty health care workers from civil liability when they render aid within their specialized body of knowledge at the scene of an emergency?

A)Emergent Care Act of 1975
B)Good Samaritan Act
C)nursing practice act
D)state civil law

Question 14

What type of law concerns relationships among individuals?

A)administrative
B)civil
C)constitutional
D)public

Question 15

Which type of law gives state boards of nursing the authority to make rules and regulations governing nursing as set forth in the nursing practice acts?

A)administrative
B)constitutional
C)criminal
D)statutory

Question 16

Which type of public law defines and limits the powers of government?

A)administrative
B)constitutional
C)criminal
D)statutory

Question 17

An employment contract is made between a nurse and a health care agency to perform certain services.The nurse is aware that this is an example of which type of law?

A)administrative
B)civil
C)contract
D)statutory

Question 18

In most cases,a nurse would experience loss of license and be sentenced to jail time if found guilty of breaking which type of law?

A)contract
B)civil
C)public
D)tort

Question 19

When a nurse commits an offense against a client or family member such as assault and battery,this represents a breach in which type of law?

A)administrative
B)constitutional
C)criminal
D)statutory

Question 20

The nurse must understand that guidelines are developed by the state boards of nursing to direct nursing care.This is an example of:

A)nursing practice acts
B)policies and procedures
C)standards of practice
D)title acts

Question 21

The nurse is caring for a client with advanced directives.The nurse understands that advanced directives:

A)can be made by the client's next of kin
B)describes a client's preferences regarding life-sustaining methods
C)must be written
D)cannot be changed once written

Question 22

Prior to a nurse obtaining a signature for informed consent,responsibilities would include verification that the client:

A)was not coerced into signing the form
B)can read and write
C)has a family member witness the signature
D)clearly understands the things discussed with the doctor

Question 23

An incident report is completed by a nurse to include all pertinent information.Which action should take place NEXT?

A)The report is channeled to the facility's risk management department.
B)The nurse makes a verbal apology to the client.
C)The report is placed in the affected client's chart.
D)The nurse makes an appointment with the immediate supervisor.

Question 24

The nurse is caring for a client by encouraging accurate,current,and understandable information regarding condition and treatment options,and by allowing each client to make independent choices about treatment plans.These nursing actions represent an example of which of these ethical principles?

A)autonomy
B)beneficence
C)fidelity
D)veracity

Question 25

Then completing nursing care for a client,the nurse should complete an incident report if which of the following situations occurs during care of this client?

A)Blood samples were sent to the lab and results were reported in 4 hours.
B)Diuril 1 g PO was ordered for 1530 and administered at 1600.
C)A visitor stayed 2 hours beyond normal visiting hours.
D)A client who is diabetic and insulin-dependent receives her roommate's regular diet tray.

Question 26

Which of the following clients could NOT be treated without a guardian or parent giving consent?

A)10-year-old female brought in by an ambulance and who is bleeding from a puncture wound
B)14-year-old female requesting treatment for alcohol addiction
C)17-year-old male requiring MMR immunization for his college application health exam
D)32-year-old married male requesting HIV testing

Question 27

In an effort to gain promotion,a nurse tells the supervisor damaging information regarding another coworker viewed as a competitor for the position.In revealing information about the coworker,the nurse is guilty of which charge?

A)harassment
B)invasion of privacy
C)libel
D)slander

Question 28

How does malpractice differ from negligence?

A)Malpractice occurs only when someone is learning to do something new or "practicing" a new skill.
B)Malpractice is defined by the state board of nursing.
C)Negligence refers specifically to the duties and responsibilities of the professional.
D)Only professionals can be accused of malpractice.

Question 29

Which of the following persons would be eligible to assume responsibility as a durable power of attorney for health care for a client?

A)a next-door neighbor
B)the client's spouse
C)the client's physician
D)the client's nurse

Question 30

A nurse witnesses a client making frightening gestures that indicate potential harm to another client This is an example of:

A)assault
B)battery
C)slander
D)verbal abuse

Question 31

A nurse reads a health care provider's order as "Fentanyl 25 mg IV q 3-4 hrs.PRN for pain" and is concerned because the dosage of this medication should read "mcg." Which of these actions should the nurse take?

A)Call the pharmacy and have the pharmacist clarify the order.
B)Contact the health care provider and clarify the order.
C)Give the dose as ordered by the health care provider.
D)Have another nurse review the order and give the dose in mcg if in agreement.

Question 32

If you suspect a coworker is diverting drugs or abusing alcohol,which of these actions should you take first?

A)Call the local drug enforcement administration (DEA)office and report your concerns.
B)Confront the coworker privately and discuss your concerns face-to-face.
C)Discuss your concerns with another coworker and see if anyone else has noted suspicious behavior.
D)Provide your supervisor with documentation of suspicious incidents or behavior supporting your concerns.

Question 33

Which of these terms describes the specific application of a philosophic concept concerning determination of right from wrong based on a body of knowledge about health care rather than on the basis of opinions?

A)bioethics
B)ethics
C)material principle of justice
D)values

Question 34

The nurse acknowledges that the signature of a client for an informed consent form can be obtained by:

A)anyone who is not related to the client
B)only the nurse who will be caring for the client when the treatment or surgery occurs
C)the health care provider,nurse,or another hospital representative
D)only the health care provider who will be performing the procedure

Question 35

The nurse witnesses the client going through another client's clothing without asking permission.The nurse is aware that this is an example of:

A)abuse
B)assault
C)battery
D)malpractice

Question 36

The client will be undergoing a surgical procedure.The nurse is aware that the responsibility to obtain informed consent from a client is done by:

A)hospital administration representative
B)nurse
C)health care provider
D)unit clerk

Question 37

If a client's medical chart is used in a legal proceeding,which of the following represents an example of correct documentation under the standard of practice that the jury will be looking for?

A)Each chart entry should be signed or initialed.
B)Administration of medications is documented before they are actually given.
C)Nursing notes reflect facts and opinions about the client.
D)Nursing notes are changed to reflect changes in client status.

Question 38

When use of restraints is prescribed for a client by a health care provider,which of these actions must the nurse take?

A)Insert a urinary catheter while the client is restrained.
B)Administer psychotropic drugs as ordered.
C)Assign a nursing assistant to sit with the client to gain cooperation.
D)Document client assessment and position changes.

Question 39

A 97-year-old client with renal failure has been hospitalized frequently during the past year.The client expresses "not wanting to go on like this" and fears being put on a "breathing machine" as the condition worsens.Which document could the nurse suggest that the client sign to ensure his or her wishes are carried out?

A)durable power of attorney for health care
B)health care directive
C)life-prolonging procedure declaration
D)living will

Question 40

A nurse who is impaired can BEST be described as a person who:

A)has an illness that may be contagious to clients
B)has a physical handicap that limits work performance
C)is under the influence of alcohol,drugs,or both
D)is required to surrender to hospital authorities when discovered

Question 41

The nurse is caring for two clients,one who is rich and famous and one who is a homeless person.The nurse has difficulty providing the same quality of care to each of these clients.This is an example of a breach in:

A)justice
B)nonmaleficence
C)veracity
D)beneficence

Question 42

The nurse administers care to all clients in exactly the same manner,without regard to race,gender,age,or expected outcome.This is an example of which ethical theory?

A)caring based theory
B)deontology
C)situational theory
D)teleology

Question 43

Which term describes omission of treatments and procedures such as orogastric feedings or ventilatory support to clients who are dying?

A)active euthanasia
B)assisted suicide
C)passive euthanasia
D)refusal of treatment

Question 44

A nurse who bases actions on behavior that creates the greatest good for the greatest number is following which ethical theory?

A)caring based
B)deontology
C)situational
D)teleology

Question 45

A client who is dying has not spoken to the doctor about her status but suspects that death is imminent.The client asks you about her status and while you feel awkward,you answer honestly without omissions of uncomfortable information.This situation represents which ethical principle?

A)beneficence
B)nonmaleficence
C)values clarification
D)veracity

Question 46

A friend who staunchly supports "right to life" recently scheduled a therapeutic abortion because of a personal health risk.While the friend's personal decision is in direct conflict with the values she so strongly advocates,which of the following ethical theories do you recognize was used in her decision making?

A)caring-based theory
B)deontology
C)situational theory
D)teleology

Question 47

A client diagnosed with terminal cancer is constantly in pain and has an order for morphine IV.While you are giving this medication,the client asks you to "accidentally" administer a much larger dose than prescribed so death would ensue.Compliance with the client's request would be considered:

A)active euthanasia
B)assisted suicide
C)passive euthanasia
D)refusal of treatment

Question 48

Upon reviewing a health care provider's orders for an assigned client,you notice that tetracycline,Maalox,and an iron supplement have been prescribed.You understand tetracycline absorption is decreased when administered with antacids or ferrous sulfate,and that the antibiotic should be taken on an empty stomach.You then schedule these medications to be given several hours apart and the tetracycline 2 to 3 hours before meals.This nursing intervention represents an example of which ethical principle?

A)beneficence
B)client advocacy
C)nonmaleficence
D)utility

Question 49

A method of identifying a person's priorities in life,including values about God,family,truth,love,sex,and pleasure is known as:

A)cultural values
B)ethical reasoning
C)personal values
D)values clarification

Question 50

Which term BEST describes an individual's collection of inner beliefs,which guide actions and help determine life choices?

A)morals
B)religion
C)self-esteem
D)value system

Question 51

The nurse encourages a client who had abdominal surgery earlier in the day to breathe deeply and cough to keep the lungs clear,while recognizing the procedure is painful to the client at this point in the postoperative recovery process.This is an example of:

A)justice
B)nonmaleficence
C)veracity
D)beneficence

Question 52

Which ethical principle considers action from the point of view of society's least fortunate people and results in equal and similar treatment of all people?

A)beneficence
B)justice
C)nonmaleficence
D)veracity

Question 53

A client who is terminally ill has been told of his prognosis by his physician,but doesn't want his adult children to know he has only a few months to live.When the children approach you and request information about their father's prognosis,which actions would BEST represent the nurse in the role of client advocate?

A)Ask that they not put you between them and their father.
B)State you are unable to discuss this kind of information but would be happy to be present if their father requests the information be shared.
C)Relate his prognosis to them factually,and ask that they not reveal who told them.
D)Disclose the prognosis in a calm,caring manner,and provide a quiet place for them to pray.

Question 54

A client undergoing renal dialysis is on a transplant list awaiting a suitable donor.Since donors are scarce and transplant candidates are selected according to greatest need and greatest possibility of successful transplant,you realize the client may undergo dialysis for many months or even years.Which ethical principle does this situation represent?

A)beneficence
B)justice
C)material principle of justice
D)nonmaleficence

Question 55

The administrators and staff of a health care facility determine that it will become "smoke free" in 2 weeks;if smokers among the staff wish to smoke,they must go to a designated area.This is an example of:

A)beneficence
B)client advocacy
C)nonmaleficence
D)utility

Question 56

Which term refers to a situation in which there is not an obvious right or wrong choice?

A)confusion
B)ethical dilemma
C)material principle of justice
D)values clarification

Question 57

A client is angry and crying as the nurse assists her out of bed to a chair 4 hours after a cesarean section,saying that she is in great pain and is more comfortable in bed.The nurse recognizes the long-term value of this therapy and encourages the client to sit up for 30 minutes.This nursing intervention represents an example of which of these ethical principles?

A)beneficence
B)nonmaleficence
C)justice
D)fidelity

Question 58

On which of these ethical principles is whistle-blowing based?

A)beneficence and utility
B)fidelity and teleology
C)justice and nonmaleficence
D)veracity and nonmaleficence

Question 59

The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of terminal cancer.The client's respirations are dangerously decreased following administration of pain medication.The nurse is aware that if interventions are not taken immediately,the client's respirations will most likely result in the client's death.The nurse's actions represent:

A)active anesthesia
B)euthanasia
C)refusal of treatment
D)utility

Question 60

A client asks the nurse about her vital signs,and the nurse refuses to provide the client with this information.This is an example of a breach in:

A)justice
B)nonmaleficence
C)veracity
D)beneficence

Question 61

The nurse is caring for a client who has dangerously elevated blood pressure and refuses to take the prescribed medication that could reduce the risk for stroke.The MOST appropriate response by the nurse is to:

A)urge the client to consider the medication's benefits
B)inform the client that he or she must take it as it is prescribed by the physician
C)accept the client's decision to refuse treatment
D)inform the client that he or she will be asked to leave the hospital

Question 62

Which of the following are major ethical principles that guide nurses in making client care decisions that reflect what is BEST for the client and for society? (Select all that apply. )

A)autonomy
B)nonmaleficence
C)standards of practice
D)fidelity
E)deontology

Question 63

Which of the following are considered to be the client's rights in the health care setting? (Select all that apply. )

A)to review their medical records as desired
B)to decline any treatment or care
C)to be treated with respect and dignity
D)to be required to have advanced directives
E)to be treated upon arrival
F)to be included in the decision-making process