Dimensions of Nursing Practice
Q&A with Rationale | Rasmussen
University
1. Which ethical principle refers to the nurse’s obligation to do no harm to the patient?
A. Beneficence
B. Justice
C. Fidelity
D. Nonmaleficence
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Nonmaleficence is the ethical requirement to avoid causing
unnecessary harm or pain to a patient. This principle often requires balancing the risks and
benefits of a treatment to ensure the least amount of harm. It is a foundational concept in
the Hippocratic Oath and modern nursing ethics.
2. When a nurse ensures that a patient has all the necessary information to make an
informed decision, which principle is being upheld?
A. Veracity
B. Autonomy
,C. Privacy
D. Confidentiality
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Autonomy is the right of patients to make their own decisions about
their healthcare based on their personal values. The nurse’s role is to provide the
information and support necessary for the patient to exercise this right. Respecting
autonomy means accepting the patient’s choice even if it differs from the nurse’s own
opinion.
3. A nurse is caring for a patient who does not speak English and arranges for a professional
interpreter. This action demonstrates:
A. Cultural Blindness
B. Cultural Competence
C. Ethnocentrism
D. Stereotyping
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Cultural competence involves providing care that is respectful of and
responsive to the health beliefs and practices of diverse patients. Using a professional
interpreter ensures clear communication and prevents errors in medical understanding.
This practice is essential for providing equitable and safe patient-centered care.
, 4. The Nurse Practice Act is established at which level of government?
A. State
B. Federal
C. Municipal
D. International
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: The Nurse Practice Act (NPA) is a state-specific law that defines the
scope of nursing practice within that jurisdiction. Each state’s Board of Nursing oversees
the enforcement of these laws to protect the public. Nurses are responsible for knowing the
specific regulations of the state in which they are licensed.
5. Which element of malpractice involves the nurse failing to meet the accepted standard of
care?
A. Duty
B. Breach of Duty
C. Causation
D. Damages
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Breach of duty occurs when a nurse’s conduct falls below the
standard of care expected of a reasonably prudent nurse in similar circumstances. It is one