Dimensions of Nursing Practice
Q&A with Rationale | Rasmussen
University
1. Which legal document defines the scope of nursing practice within a specific state?
A. The American Nurses Association Standards of Practice
B. The State Nurse Practice Act
C. The Institutional Policy Manual
D. The Code of Ethics for Nurses
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The Nurse Practice Act is a state law that governs the practice of
nursing to ensure public safety. It specifies the duties, responsibilities, and limits of nursing
professionals in that jurisdiction. Every nurse is legally responsible for adhering to the
specific rules set by their state’s act.
2. A nurse respects a patient’s decision to refuse chemotherapy despite knowing the
treatment could be life-saving. Which ethical principle is being applied?
A. Autonomy
B. Justice
,C. Nonmaleficence
D. Beneficence
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make their own decisions
about their healthcare. By respecting the refusal, the nurse acknowledges the patient’s
independence and self-determination. This principle is fundamental to the concept of
informed consent and patient rights.
3. When a nurse performs a dressing change and ensures the patient is comfortable and safe,
which ethical principle is primarily being demonstrated?
A. Beneficence
B. Veracity
C. Fidelity
D. Justice
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Beneficence is the duty to act in ways that benefit others and
promote their well-being. In clinical practice, this means taking positive actions to help the
patient and provide high-quality care. It contrasts with nonmaleficence, which focuses on
avoiding the infliction of harm.
, 4. The nurse is preparing to administer medication but realizes the dose is unusually high. The
nurse calls the provider to clarify. This action represents which principle?
A. Social Justice
B. Nonmaleficence
C. Paternalism
D. Accountability
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Nonmaleficence is the ethical obligation to do no harm to the patient.
By questioning a potentially dangerous dose, the nurse is preventing a medication error
that could cause injury. This principle requires nurses to be vigilant and protective of
patient safety at all times.
5. A nurse promises to return in 15 minutes to help a patient walk to the bathroom and
follows through on that promise. This is an example of:
A. Veracity
B. Autonomy
C. Fidelity
D. Justice
Correct Answer: C