Question

A nurse on the mental health unit is caring for a group of clients which of the following actions by the nurse is an example of the ethical principle of justice?

A. Allowing a client to choose which unit activities to attend
-The nurse is demonstrating the ethical principle of autonomy by allowing the client to choose which unit activities to attend.
B. Attempting alternative therapies instead of restraints for a client who is combative
-The nurse is demonstrating the ethical principal of nonmaleficence by attempting less restrictive alternative therapies instead of restraints for a client who is combative.
C. Providing a client with accurate information about their prognosis
-The nurse is demonstrating the ethical principle of veracity by providing the client with accurate information about their prognosis.
D. Spending adequate time with a client who is verbally abusive
-By spending adequate time with a client who is verbally abusive, the nurse is demonstrating the ethical principle of justice. When the nurse spends an appropriate amount of time with each client regardless of their behavior and in keeping with their individual needs, the nurse guarantees that all clients receive equal care.

Answer 1

The principle of justice in healthcare mandates equitable and fair treatment of all clients, which is demonstrated by a nurse spending adequate time with each client regardless of behavior. It stands alongside other key ethical principles like autonomy and nonmaleficence, guiding the delivery of care and research ethics.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse spends adequate time with a client who is verbally abusive, they are demonstrating the ethical principle of justice. This principle is based on the idea that healthcare and clinical treatment should be equitable and fair. When a nurse ensures that all clients receive equal attention and care, despite their behavior, they uphold the principle of justice, which insists on similar treatment for similar cases in a clinical setting. This is in contrast to providing special treatment for certain individuals or allowing biases to affect the care provided.

Another important ethical principle is the principle of autonomy, which states that patients have the right to make decisions about their own healthcare. The principle of nonmaleficence emphasizes that care should not cause harm and that alternatives to potentially harmful interventions should be considered. In the context of research ethics, the principle of justice ensures fair treatment of all participants and that trial designs and participation requirements are impartial.

Ultimately, ethical principles guide healthcare professionals in making decisions that respect the rights and dignity of clients, and just treatment is fundamental to maintaining trust and integrity in the healthcare environment.