A nurse encourages a patient to take narcotics for severe cancer pain. The patient is concerned about the possible side effects. The nurse gives the patient the narcotic and tells the patient; "It's for your own good and it's important to get your pain under control." What is the nurse's behaviour an example of?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse's behavior is an example of paternalism because the nurse is making decisions on behalf of the patient without fully considering the patient's wishes or concerns. The nurse is acting as if he/she knows what is best for the patient, rather than empowering the patient to make his/her own decisions about pain management.

A Nurse Encourages a Patient to Take Narcotics for Severe