ATI: Ethical and Legal Considerations Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

ATI: Ethical and Legal Considerations Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the primary purpose of the Nurse Practice Act? To protect the public by regulating nursing practice What should a nurse do first when a client refuses medication? Respect the client’s decision and document the refusal What is the term for failing to provide care that a reasonably prudent nurse would offer? Negligence When a nurse maintains patient confidentiality, which ethical principle is being followed? Fidelity What is the nurse’s responsibility when witnessing a client’s informed consent? Confirm the client voluntarily signed the form and understands the procedure 2 What is the legal implication of documenting care that was never provided? Falsification of records What must the nurse do if they suspect abuse of a vulnerable adult? Report the suspicion to the appropriate authorities What should a nurse do when assigned to a task beyond their legal scope of practice? Decline the assignment and notify the supervisor Which ethical principle is applied when the nurse avoids causing harm? Nonmaleficence What is the correct action if a patient wants to leave the hospital against medical advice? Explain the risks, notify the provider, and document the decision Which legal concept protects healthcare workers who render aid in emergencies? Good Samaritan Law 3 What should a nurse do if a client shares confidential information unrelated to care? Protect the confidentiality unless the information indicates harm to self or others What is the nurse’s first responsibility if a medication error occurs? Assess the client for adverse effects and report the error What ethical concept is upheld when a nurse provides truthful information to a client? Veracity What should a nurse do when a coworker comes to work under the influence? Report the situation to a supervisor immediately What is required before a surgical procedure can legally be performed? Informed consent from the client or legal representative What should the nurse do if a client’s advance directive requests no resuscitation? Follow the directive and document actions taken 4 What legal violation occurs when a procedure is performed without client consent? Battery What is the nurse’s ethical duty when a client voices concern about their care plan? Advocate for the client by addressing their concerns with the healthcare team When a nurse withholds treatment at the client’s request, what ethical principle is applied? Autonomy