A client has been complaining of pain, even though the nurse has given

A client has been complaining of pain, even though the nurse has given the client the maximum amount of medication as ordered by the physician. Which of the following demonstrates the nurse’s respect for the client’s autonomy?

1. Telling the client that he will have to “tough it out”
2. Calling the physician for further orders
3. Telling co-workers that this client has no pain tolerance
4. Believing the client is drug seeking

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: This option does not exemplify the nurse’s respect for or consideration of the client’s situation.
Rationale 2: Honoring the principle of autonomy means that the nurse respects the client’s right to make decisions, treating others with consideration and not as impersonal sources of knowledge or training. Believing the client continues to have pain would be an example of treating with consideration. For whatever reason, this particular client is not responding to the medication ordered by the physician and other medications or treatment should be initiated.
Rationale 3: This option does not exemplify the nurse’s respect for or consideration of the client’s situation.
Rationale 4: This option does not exemplify the nurse’s respect for or consideration of the client’s situation.