Dimensions of Nursing Practice
Q&A with Rationale | Rasmussen
University
1. Which ethical principle is defined as the duty to do good and the requirement that health-
care providers act in ways that benefit the patient?
A. Autonomy
B. Beneficence
C. Justice
D. Veracity
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Beneficence is the core ethical principle of providing benefit and
promoting the well-being of others. It requires the nurse to act in the best interest of the
patient while balancing risks and benefits. In the clinical setting, this involves
implementing interventions that directly improve patient outcomes.
2. A nurse is explaining a procedure to a client and ensures the client understands the risks
and benefits before signing a form. Which legal concept is this?
A. False imprisonment
,B. Battery
C. Informed consent
D. Defamation
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Informed consent is a legal process where a client is educated about
the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a treatment. It is the responsibility of the healthcare
provider performing the procedure to obtain this, though the nurse often witnesses the
signature. This process protects the patient’s right to self-determination and autonomy.
3. Which element is NOT one of the four required components to prove nursing malpractice?
A. Duty of care
B. Breach of duty
C. Injury or damages
D. Intent to cause harm
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Malpractice is a form of negligence that does not require the intent to
cause harm to be proven. The legal system focuses on whether the nurse failed to meet the
standard of care, leading to injury. The four essential elements are duty, breach of duty,
causation, and damages.
, 4. A nurse is caring for a terminally ill patient who wishes to stop all life-sustaining
treatments. The nurse supports this decision based on which principle?
A. Autonomy
B. Fidelity
C. Nonmaleficence
D. Utility
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Autonomy refers to the right of individuals to make their own
decisions about their healthcare. It emphasizes respect for the patient’s values and
preferences even when they conflict with the provider’s views. Nurses act as advocates by
ensuring these choices are honored by the healthcare team.
5. What is the primary purpose of the State Nurse Practice Act?
A. To define the pay scales for nurses
B. To provide health insurance to registered nurses
C. To establish the hours of work for hospital staff
D. To protect the public from unsafe practitioners
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: The Nurse Practice Act is a set of laws in each state that regulates
nursing practice to ensure safety. Its main goal is to protect the health and welfare of the