ATI test- Ethical and Legal Consideration Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

ATI test- Ethical and Legal Consideration Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the primary purpose of obtaining informed consent before a procedure? To ensure the client understands the procedure, risks, benefits, and alternatives before agreeing to it Who is legally responsible for explaining a surgical procedure to a client? The healthcare provider performing the procedure When can a nurse legally share a client’s medical information without consent? When it is required by law or necessary to protect public health What is the nurse’s responsibility if a client refuses a prescribed medication? Respect the client’s right to refuse and document the refusal What action should the nurse take if they suspect elder abuse? Report it to the appropriate authorities as mandated by law 2 What is the ethical principle of autonomy? The client’s right to make their own decisions about their care What is the purpose of an advance directive? To outline the client’s wishes regarding medical treatment if they become unable to communicate Who should the nurse notify if a client's advance directive is not being followed? The charge nurse or nursing supervisor What should a nurse do if a client is confused and unable to consent to treatment? Contact the legal guardian or healthcare proxy What is the nurse’s role in informed consent? Witness the client’s signature and ensure they were not coerced 3 If a client shares information about planning to harm themselves, what is the nurse’s legal obligation? Report the threat to ensure the client’s safety What is the ethical principle of beneficence? Acting in the best interest of the client to promote well-being What is the ethical principle of nonmaleficence? Avoiding harm to the client What should a nurse do if asked to perform a procedure outside their scope of practice? Politely decline and inform the appropriate supervisor When is it acceptable for a nurse to use physical restraints? Only with a provider’s order and when all other methods have failed to ensure safety What is a nurse’s first action if a medication error occurs? Assess the client for adverse effects 4 What is the nurse’s priority responsibility in maintaining confidentiality? Safeguarding client information and