Adult Health Nursing First Chapter Quizlet Related

Review Adult Health Nursing First Chapter Quizlet related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of substance abuse who requests pain medication. What ethical principle should guide the nurse's decision-making in this situation?

  • A. Beneficence
  • B. Nonmaleficence
  • C. Justice
  • D. Veracity
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The ethical principle that should guide the nurse's decision-making in this situation is beneficence, which emphasizes the nurse's obligation to act in the best interest of the patient. In this scenario, the nurse must balance the patient's request for pain medication with considerations related to the patient's history of substance abuse. The nurse should prioritize providing effective pain relief for the patient while also considering the potential risks of administering medication to someone with a history of substance abuse. By focusing on beneficence, the nurse can make decisions that promote the well-being and best interests of the patient, taking into account both the immediate need for pain relief and the patient's history of substance abuse.