Question

Which Interpretive Statement of the Code of Ethics would provide guidance to a nurse who suspects a co-worker is drinking during shift breaks and lunchtime hours?

A). 4.4 Assignment and Delegation of Nursing Activities
B). 6.2 The Environment and Ethical Obligation
C). 3.6 Patient Protection and Impaired Practice
D). 2.4 Professional Boundaries

Answer 1

Interpretive Statement C). 3.6 Patient Protection and Impaired Practice of the Code of Ethics guides a nurse in addressing a situation where a co-worker is suspected of drinking during work hours, emphasizing the duty to protect patients and the nursing profession.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct Interpretive Statement of the Code of Ethics that would provide guidance to a nurse who suspects a co-worker is drinking during shift breaks and lunchtime hours is C). 3.6 Patient Protection and Impaired Practice.

This section explicitly addresses issues related to impaired practice and the ethical responsibility of nurses to ensure patient safety and well-being, which includes reporting suspicions of a coworker's substance use that could potentially impact the quality of care provided. It provides the necessary framework for a nurse to understand their duty in protecting patients and the integrity of the nursing profession by taking appropriate steps when faced with such ethical dilemmas.