Without authorization,a nurse administers an extra dose of narcotic tranquilizer to an agitated client.The nurse's coworker observes this action but does nothing for fear of repercussion.What is the ethical interpretation of the coworker's lack of involvement?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The coworker's lack of involvement can be interpreted as an action taken.The coworker is experiencing an ethical dilemma in which a decision needs to be made between two unfavorable alternatives.Although the coworker may be struggling with ethical decision making,he or she has witnessed another nurse dispensing medication outside of the scope of practice; therefore,from a legal perspective,this should be reported.

Without Authorization,a Nurse Administers an Extra Dose of Narcotic Tranquilizer