The nurse is caring for a patient who has been belligerent and is in four-point "leather" restraints. The patient is verbally abusive and still tries to kick and punch staff even though he is restrained. The nurse should:

Question

a. ignore the patient's needs until he "calms down."
b. strike the patient if necessary to protect herself/himself.
c. continue to attempt to meet the patient's needs.
d. threaten the patient with retaliation if he doesn't stop.

Answer 1

ANS: C
Provision 1.5 (of the Nursing Code of Ethics) states, "The principle of respect for persons extends to all individuals with whom the nurse interacts. The nurse maintains compassionate and caring relationships with colleagues and others with a commitment to the fair treatment of individuals, to integrity-preserving compromise, and to resolving conflict." It continues by saying, "This standard of conduct precludes any and all prejudicial actions, any form of harassment or threatening behavior, or disregard for the effect of one's actions on others." It is expected that nurses (including student nurses) will not engage in behaviors that show "disregard for the effect of one's actions on others." This is a powerful mandate for all nurses to communicate and act professionally to prevent inflicting physical or emotional pain on others while pursuing nursing education and engaging in nursing practice.