When caring for several acutely ill clients, the nurse exhibits profes

When caring for several acutely ill clients, the nurse exhibits professional autonomy when:

1. Delivering medications and prescribed treatments in a timely manner
2. Prioritizing client according to client needs
3. Communicating with peers when help is needed
4. Informing the supervisor about high acuity level and staff-to-client ratio

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale: Autonomy in nursing means independence at work, responsibility, and accountability for one’s actions. Making decisions about which client requires care according to needs is an example of autonomy. Carrying out physician orders would be an example of nursing care, but not independence. Communication is important in any profession as well as making concerns known to supervisors, but these are not examples of controlling activity-a hallmark of autonomy.