Chapter 3: Ethics Resources for Nurses

MULTIPLE CHOICE 1. Which of the following was a focus of codes of ethics during earlier nursing times? a. Professional standards b. Practice standards c. The scope of practice standards d. The virtue and morality of nurses ANS: D Correct D: The virtue, character, and morality of nurses were the focus of early nursing codes of ethics, in addition to key principles that guided nursing practice. Incorrect A: Professional standards have evolved in the current Code; they were not a focus of historical codes of ethics. Incorrect B: Practice standards were not a part of historical codes of ethics and are not part of the modern Code. Practice standards set out requirements related to specific aspects of registered nurses’ practice. Incorrect C: The scope of practice standards were not a part of historical codes of ethics and are not part of the modern Code. Scope of practice standards articulate standards, limits, and conditions related to the scope of practice of registered nurses and nurse practitioners. DIF: Cognitive level: Comprehension REF: p. 62 2. Which of the following is true of the Canadian Nurses Association’s Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses? a. It offers suggestions on resolving routine practice issues. b. It contains a dispute resolution mechanism. c. It offers a framework and guide for ethical practice. d. It is closely aligned with the physician’s code of ethics. ANS: C Correct C: The Code contains nursing values and ethical responsibilities, as well as ethical endeavours, all of which guide and frame ethical reflection and decision making in nursing practice. Incorrect A: Practice issues are not discussed in the Code; these are regulatory body issues. Incorrect B: Dispute resolution mechanisms are part of a collective agreement, not a code of ethics. Incorrect D: There may be similarities between the two codes because they are both informed by ethical principles; however, there is no alignment between these two codes.