The charge nurse overhears a new nurse telling a patient that he should no longer follow his vegetarian diet because his protein needs are so high and because "God made animals for us to eat." What action by the charge nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should not share opinions or religious edicts with patients when those beliefs contradict the patient's. The charge nurse should counsel the new nurse about this practice. The patient may hold deep convictions about being a vegetarian and may feel disapproval from the nurse, which will impact the nurse-patient relationship. The other options are not appropriate, although the charge nurse could suggest the new nurse collaborate with the dietitian and patient to determine high-protein foods the patient finds acceptable.

The Charge Nurse Overhears a New Nurse Telling a Patient