CFN Ethical and Professional Practice 4

Question 1

A forensic nurse is caring for an incarcerated patient who is also a crime victim. Which ethical principle is MOST challenged in this dual-role scenario?

Accepted Answer

Justice, balancing equitable care with institutional security obligations

Answer

Justice is challenged when nurses must balance fair, equitable care for incarcerated victims against institutional security constraints and policies.

Question 2

A patient discloses during a forensic exam that they want to harm someone specific after they are discharged. What is the forensic nurse's obligation?

Accepted Answer

Warn the intended victim and notify appropriate authorities per the duty to protect

Answer

The duty to protect (Tarasoff obligation) requires healthcare providers to warn identifiable potential victims and notify authorities when a credible threat of harm is disclosed.

Question 3

When a forensic nurse maintains detailed, accurate records primarily to support accountability and professional integrity rather than legal requirement, this reflects which ethical concept?

Accepted Answer

Professional accountability and transparency

Answer

Professional accountability involves maintaining accurate records to uphold integrity, transparency, and responsibility to patients, employers, and the public.

Question 4

A forensic nurse is asked to conduct a strip search of a detainee as part of a routine intake process. Before complying, the nurse should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Assess whether the search is medically necessary and falls within nursing scope of practice

Answer

Forensic nurses must evaluate whether requested procedures are medically justified and within their professional scope before participating, as non-medically-indicated strip searches may constitute ethical violations.

Question 5

A sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) documents findings that could exonerate an accused individual. Which ethical principle MOST requires the nurse to report these findings accurately?

Accepted Answer

Veracity and justice, ensuring the legal system has accurate information

Answer

Veracity and justice require forensic nurses to report all findings truthfully and completely, including those that may exonerate a suspect, because the legal system depends on accurate forensic evidence.

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

(CFN) Certified Forensic Nurse Practice Test

CFN Ethical and Professional Practice 4