A patient asks the nurse to keep a serious medication error secret from the healthcare team. Which response is most ethical?
Correct answer: C. Explain that the error must be reported for patient safety
- A. Agree because confidentiality always prevents disclosure
- B. Promise secrecy and document only the patient's request
- C. Explain that the error must be reported for patient safety
- D. Tell the patient's relatives before informing the healthcare team
Explanation
The nurse should explain that a medication error must be reported promptly through the appropriate clinical and safety channels. Confidentiality does not permit concealment of information needed to assess harm and prevent further injury.
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About Nursing Ethics
Nursing ethics examines autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, fidelity, veracity, confidentiality and respect for dignity. It covers informed consent, patient advocacy, privacy, refusal of treatment, end-of-life decisions and ethical dilemmas, while distinguishing ethical duties from legal requirements and personal beliefs.
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