CFN Ethical and Professional Practice 2

Question 1

A forensic nurse is subpoenaed to testify in court about a patient's injuries. Which ethical principle primarily guides the nurse's obligation to provide truthful testimony?

Accepted Answer

Veracity

Answer

Veracity, the duty to tell the truth, obligates forensic nurses to provide honest and accurate testimony even when it may be uncomfortable.

Question 2

A forensic nurse examiner discovers that a colleague falsified documentation in a sexual assault case. What is the nurse's MOST appropriate first action?

Accepted Answer

Report the misconduct to the appropriate supervisor or ethics board

Answer

Professional accountability requires reporting misconduct through proper channels to protect patients, the integrity of evidence, and the nursing profession.

Question 3

When conducting a forensic examination of a minor sexual assault victim, parental consent cannot be obtained. Under which circumstance may the exam proceed without parental consent?

Accepted Answer

When mandated reporting laws override consent requirements in an emergency

Answer

Mandated reporting statutes and emergency exceptions can legally authorize medical examination of minors when parental consent is unavailable and the child's welfare is at risk.

Question 4

A forensic nurse is asked by law enforcement to release a patient's medical records immediately after an assault. What should the nurse do?

Accepted Answer

Obtain written patient authorization or a valid court order before releasing records

Answer

HIPAA requires patient authorization or a valid legal process such as a court order or subpoena before releasing protected health information to law enforcement.

Question 5

Which of the following BEST describes the role of a forensic nurse when acting as an expert witness?

Accepted Answer

Provide objective, evidence-based opinion within the nurse's scope of expertise

Answer

An expert witness must remain objective and base testimony on professional knowledge and evidence, not on who retained them.

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

CFN Ethical and Professional Practice 2