Ethics and Legal Issues in Nursing

These flashcards cover key concepts in ethics and legal issues relevant to nursing practice, focusing on the Code of Ethics, ethical principles, and legal responsibilities of nurses.

What does Provision 3 of the Code of Ethics for Nurses emphasize?

It emphasizes that the nurse establishes a trusting relationship and advocates for the rights, health, and safety of recipients of nursing care.

What is the definition of ethics in nursing?

Ethics is a system dealing with standards of character and behavior related to what is right and wrong, and is integral to nursing.

What is the primary commitment of a nurse according to Provision 2 of the Code of Ethics?

A nurse’s primary commitment is to the recipient(s) of nursing care.

What does the term 'autonomy' mean in the context of nursing ethics?

Autonomy refers to a person’s right to choose and the ability to act on that choice, based on respect for human dignity.

What are the legal requirements included in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)?

HIPAA requires healthcare agencies to protect patient information and restricts unauthorized access and disclosure of patients' private information.

What is the role of a nurse regarding informed consent?

The nurse's role is to witness the signing of the consent form and ensure the elements of valid informed consent are in place.

What constitutes an ethical dilemma?

An ethical dilemma involves conflicts in values arising between the patient’s values, nurse’s values, health care provider’s values, organizational values, and/or societal values.

What is the difference between malpractice and negligence in nursing?

Malpractice occurs when a nurse knowingly does not follow the standard of care, while negligence occurs due to an unintentional mistake or omission that causes patient harm.

What is the significance of the Duty of Care in nursing?

Duty of Care refers to the obligation of nurses to act responsibly within their scope of practice and to provide competent care to patients.

What does the term 'beneficence' mean in nursing ethics?

Beneficence is the duty to promote good and act in the best interest of the patient.