Question

A resident did not get to the bathroom in time. She urinated and had a bowel movement in her clothing. To prevent an accident in the dining room, the nurse makes the person stay in her room.

a) Acceptable practice
b) Negligence
c) Appropriate precaution
d) Violation of dignity

Answer 1

Keeping a resident in their room after incontinence to prevent public accidents can be viewed as a violation of dignity. Care should focus on respecting the individual's dignity while ensuring safety and hygiene, balancing immediate clean-up with the need for social interaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Maintaining dignity and respect for individuals in a care setting is paramount. The scenario described where a nurse makes a resident stay in her room after an incontinent episode can be viewed as a violation of dignity. By not allowing the resident to join others in the dining room, the nurse may be protecting the resident and others from embarrassment or hygiene issues, but it also segregates and potentially humiliates the resident. It is important to balance dignity with safety and hygiene.

Care providers should opt for solutions that support both safe practices and respect for the individual's dignity. This might include immediate clean-up and a change of clothes, ensuring the resident can then join others without risk of further incidents. Preventing a person from socializing because of a natural and often uncontrollable condition, such as incontinence, should be handled delicately to avoid feelings of shame and isolation. Assistance should be provided in a manner that is discreet and respectful.