LPN Ethical, Legal & Professional Standards 2

Question 1

A patient refuses a prescribed blood transfusion due to religious beliefs. What is the LPN's most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Document the refusal and notify the charge nurse or physician

Answer

Competent adults have the legal right to refuse treatment; the LPN must document the refusal and escalate to the RN or physician.

Question 2

Which document legally designates someone to make healthcare decisions for a patient who becomes incapacitated?

Accepted Answer

Durable power of attorney for healthcare

Answer

A durable power of attorney for healthcare names a healthcare proxy to make decisions when the patient cannot.

Question 3

An LPN notices a colleague removing controlled substances from the medication cart without documenting the withdrawal. What should the LPN do first?

Accepted Answer

Report the observation to the charge nurse or supervisor immediately

Answer

Suspected diversion of controlled substances is a patient safety and legal issue that must be reported to the charge nurse immediately.

Question 4

Which ethical principle is violated when an LPN shares a patient's HIV status with the patient's employer without consent?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality

Answer

Disclosing protected health information without consent violates the patient's right to confidentiality under HIPAA and ethical standards.

Question 5

A patient signs a consent form for surgery but tells the LPN, 'I don't really understand what they're going to do.' What is the LPN's priority action?

Accepted Answer

Notify the RN or surgeon that informed consent may not be adequate

Answer

Valid informed consent requires patient understanding; the LPN must inform the RN or surgeon so they can re-explain before proceeding.

(LPN) Certified Practical Nurse Practice Test

(LPN) Certified Practical Nurse Practice Test

LPN Ethical, Legal & Professional Standards 2