Ethical Principles
What does 'beneficence' mean in nursing ethics?
Doing good for the patient; acting in their best interest.
What federal law classifies morphine as a Schedule II drug?
Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
This principle means 'do no harm.'
Non-maleficence.
What does the Nurse Practice Act regulate?
Defines scope of practice and outlines disciplinary actions for nurses.
What is 'autonomy' and how does it apply to patients?
Respecting a patient's right to make their own healthcare decisions.
What does HIPAA stand for
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996
Describe the principle of 'justice' in patient care.
Fair and equal treatment for all patients regardless of background or condition.
Name one consequence of violating HIPAA by falsifying documentation.
Civil fines, criminal penalties, or loss of license.
Give an example of a situation involving conflicting ethical principles.
A patient refuses life-saving treatment (autonomy vs. beneficence).
What are the Joint Commission’s expectations regarding drug diversion?
Hospitals must have systems to monitor and report diversion of controlled substances.