Question 1
A nurse is caring for a client who is dying of metastatic breast cancer. She has a prescription for an opioid pain medication PRN. The nurse is concerned that administering a dose of pain medication might hasten the client's death. Which of the following ethical principles should the nurse use to support the decision not to administer the medication?
- A. Utilitarianism
- B. Nonmaleficence
- C. Fidelity
- D. Veracity
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — Nonmaleficence
The correct answer is B: Nonmaleficence. Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle of doing no harm. In this scenario, the nurse should prioritize the client's comfort and pain relief without causing harm. Administering the pain medication as needed aligns with this principle by addressing the client's suffering without intentionally hastening death. Utilitarianism (A) focuses on the greatest good for the greatest number, which may not directly apply to the individual client's situation. Fidelity (C) pertains to keeping promises and being faithful, which is important but not the primary ethical principle in this case. Veracity (D) relates to truth-telling, which is also important but not the primary concern when addressing pain management in end-of-life care.