Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 64%
Simulated
A nurse on a medical-surgical unit is caring for a client who tells the nurse about their intentions to harm an ex-partner. Which of the following actions is a legal duty of the nurse?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Correct Answer: B. Ensure the client's ex-partner is notified of the threat.
Rationale: The nurse has a legal duty to protect potential victims by notifying the ex-partner to prevent harm. This action upholds the duty to warn principle, safeguarding the well-being of others. Keeping the client hospitalized indefinitely (A) is not ethically sound and violates the client's rights. Asking a friend or family member to monitor the client (C) may not ensure the ex-partner's safety. Transfer to a mental health facility (D) may be necessary but does not directly address the immediate threat.
Rationale: The nurse has a legal duty to protect potential victims by notifying the ex-partner to prevent harm. This action upholds the duty to warn principle, safeguarding the well-being of others. Keeping the client hospitalized indefinitely (A) is not ethically sound and violates the client's rights. Asking a friend or family member to monitor the client (C) may not ensure the ex-partner's safety. Transfer to a mental health facility (D) may be necessary but does not directly address the immediate threat.