| Dimensions of Nursing Practice
Q&A with Rationale | Rasmussen
University
1. Which ethical principle is defined as the duty to do good and act in the best interest of the
patient?
A. Autonomy
B. Non-maleficence
C. Justice
D. Beneficence
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Beneficence requires that nurses take positive actions to help others.
It involves balancing the benefits of treatment against the risks and costs to ensure the best
outcome. This principle is fundamental to the advocacy role of a professional nurse.
2. A nurse is sued for malpractice. What is the first legal element that must be proven in a
court of law?
A. Breach of duty
B. Causation
,C. Duty of care
D. Damages
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: For a malpractice claim to be successful, the plaintiff must first
establish that a professional relationship existed. This relationship creates a legal duty of
care that the nurse owes to the patient. Without a proven duty, the subsequent elements of
breach and harm cannot be legally addressed.
3. Which nursing theorist developed the ‘Theory of Human Caring’ emphasizing the
transpersonal relationship?
A. Sister Callista Roy
B. Dorothea Orem
C. Jean Watson
D. Florence Nightingale
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Jean Watson’s theory focuses on the spiritual and subjective aspects
of the human experience. It promotes healing through intentional caring moments between
the nurse and the patient. This model moves beyond task-oriented nursing to a more
holistic approach.
, 4. What is the primary purpose of a State’s Nurse Practice Act?
A. To provide a list of local nursing jobs
B. To set national standards for nursing education
C. To protect the public from unsafe practitioners
D. To determine the salaries of registered nurses
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: The Nurse Practice Act is a set of laws that define the scope of
nursing practice within a specific state. Its primary mission is to safeguard public health
and safety by regulating nursing licensure and conduct. By enforcing these rules, the state
ensures that only competent individuals provide care.
5. A patient refuses a life-saving blood transfusion due to religious beliefs. The nurse respects
this decision, demonstrating which principle?
A. Autonomy
B. Fidelity
C. Veracity
D. Altruism
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make their own decisions
about their medical care. Even if the nurse disagrees with the patient’s choice, they must