LVN Ethical Standards & Legal Responsibilities 2

Question 1

An LVN discovers a colleague falsifying medication administration records. What is the LVN's primary obligation?

Accepted Answer

Report the falsification to a supervisor or appropriate authority

Answer

LVNs are legally and ethically obligated to report suspected fraud or falsification of records to protect patient safety.

Question 2

Which legal doctrine holds employers responsible for the negligent acts of their employees performed within the scope of employment?

Accepted Answer

Respondeat superior

Answer

Respondeat superior ('let the master answer') makes employers vicariously liable for employee negligence during employment duties.

Question 3

A patient tells the LVN they want to leave the hospital against medical advice (AMA). The LVN should FIRST:

Accepted Answer

Inform the supervising nurse/physician and document the patient's request

Answer

Competent adults have the right to refuse treatment; the LVN must notify the appropriate provider and follow AMA documentation procedures.

Question 4

Which ethical principle requires the LVN to keep a promise made to a patient?

Accepted Answer

Fidelity

Answer

Fidelity refers to the duty to keep promises and honor commitments made to patients.

Question 5

An LVN administers the wrong medication due to a misread order. Which action is legally required after notifying the supervisor?

Accepted Answer

Complete an incident/variance report documenting the error

Answer

Incident reports are a legal requirement to document medication errors and initiate follow-up for patient safety.

(LVN) Licensed Vocational Nurses Certification Practice Test