Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 67%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who is participating in a research study for an experimental chemotherapy medication. After three treatments, the experimental medication is discontinued due to evidence of rapidly advancing kidney failure. The nurse should understand discontinuing this medication demonstrates which of the following ethical principles?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Nonmaleficence. This principle of ethics requires healthcare providers to do no harm to their patients. In this scenario, discontinuing the experimental chemotherapy medication after evidence of rapidly advancing kidney failure demonstrates the nurse's commitment to preventing further harm to the client. By stopping the medication that is causing harm, the nurse is upholding the principle of nonmaleficence.
Other choices are incorrect:
A: Veracity - Veracity pertains to truthfulness and honesty in communication with patients. Discontinuing the medication is not related to truthfulness.
B: Fidelity - Fidelity refers to the obligation to fulfill commitments and promises made to patients. Discontinuing the medication is not about fulfilling commitments.
D: Autonomy - Autonomy is the right of patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare. Discontinuing the medication is not about respecting the patient's autonomy in this context.
Other choices are incorrect:
A: Veracity - Veracity pertains to truthfulness and honesty in communication with patients. Discontinuing the medication is not related to truthfulness.
B: Fidelity - Fidelity refers to the obligation to fulfill commitments and promises made to patients. Discontinuing the medication is not about fulfilling commitments.
D: Autonomy - Autonomy is the right of patients to make their own decisions about their healthcare. Discontinuing the medication is not about respecting the patient's autonomy in this context.