Ethical Standards & Legal Responsibilities Flashcards
9 cards from real LVN practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 9 Ethical Standards & Legal Responsibilities flashcards as text
Which principle is central to nursing ethics?
Answer: Autonomy
Autonomy is a central principle in nursing ethics, emphasizing the patient's right to make informed decisions about their own healthcare. Nurses uphold autonomy by providing comprehensive information, respecting patient choices, and advocating for their preferences, even if they differ from the nurse's own views.
Which legal document allows patients to outline their medical wishes in advance?
Answer: Advance directive
An advance directive lets patients communicate their treatment preferences before they become unable to do so.
What is the main purpose of HIPAA in healthcare?
Answer: To protect patient privacy
HIPAA ensures patient information remains confidential and secure.
Which legal concept holds a nurse accountable for their actions?
Answer: Liability
Liability refers to the legal responsibility nurses have for their decisions and actions in patient care.
What action demonstrates a violation of patient confidentiality?
Answer: Discussing a patient case with a friend
Discussing patient information with unauthorized persons breaches confidentiality rules.
What term refers to the failure to provide reasonable care resulting in harm?
Answer: Negligence
Negligence is when a nurse fails to act with the expected level of care, leading to patient harm.
Which action illustrates ethical nursing care?
Answer: Advocating for a patient’s right to refuse treatment
Advocating for a patient’s right to refuse treatment honors their autonomy and ethical standards.
What is informed consent?
Answer: Permission given after understanding treatment risks
Informed consent means the patient understands and agrees to the proposed care after being fully educated on the risks and benefits.
What is the nurse’s duty when witnessing unethical behavior by another healthcare provider?
Answer: Report it to the appropriate authority
Nurses must report unethical or illegal actions to the appropriate authority to ensure patient safety and uphold professional standards.