Ethics, Law, and Delegation in Nursing

Flashcards covering key concepts related to ethics, law, and professional responsibilities in nursing.

Ethical dilemma

A situation in which a decision must be made between two opposing alternatives.

Patient Care Partnership (PCP)

Discusses the expectations, rights, and responsibilities of the patient during their hospital stay.

Do Not Attempt to Resuscitate (DNAR) Order

A written order indicating that cardiopulmonary resuscitation should not be initiated.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

Federal law providing for confidential maintenance of protected health information.

Negligence

Failure to provide certain care that another person would generally provide under the same circumstances.

Malpractice

Injury or damage to a patient resulting from failure to provide a reasonable standard of care.

Informed consent

A voluntary agreement made by a patient to be treated by a healthcare provider.

Advance directive

Written documents that provide guidelines for making medical decisions when a person is incapacitated.

Good Samaritan Law

Legal protection for individuals who provide assistance in emergencies.

Nurse Practice Act (NPA)

State law that defines the scope of nursing within that state.