Question

While at lunch, a nurse heard other nurses at a nearby table talking about a client they did not like. When they asked him what he thought, he politely refused to join in the conversation. What value was the nurse demonstrating?

1) The importance of food in meeting a basic human need
2) A low value on collegiality and friendship
3) Men never gossip
4) Basic respect for human dignity

Answer 1

The nurse exemplified basic respect for human dignity by choosing not to participate in negative discussions about a client, aligning with core nursing ethics and nonmaleficence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse who politely refused to join in the conversation about a client they did not like demonstrated basic respect for human dignity. By not engaging in negative talk about the client, the nurse adhered to professional ethics and demonstrated care for maintaining a respectful workplace. Respecting others is a fundamental aspect of nursing ethics, which emphasize the value of every individual despite personal feelings or differences.

It's important for healthcare professionals to set aside their personal biases and uphold the dignity of all persons, aligning with the ethical principle of nonmaleficence, which entails not speaking ill of patients or contributing to an environment that may lead to harm.