The document discusses legal and ethical aspects of nursing including sources of law, nurse practice acts, licensure requirements, standards of care, professional accountability, patient rights, and codes of ethics. It covers topics like informed consent, advance directives, documentation in medical records, and decreasing legal risks.
Some of the most commonly occurring legal issues that impact on nursing and nursing practice are those relating to informed consent and refusing treatment as previously detailed, licensure, the safeguarding of clients' personal possessions and valuables, malpractice, negligence, mandatory reporting relating to gunshot....
The legal implications of nursing practice are tied to licensure, state and federal laws, scope of practice and a public expectation that nurses practice at a high professional standard. The nurse's education, license and nursing standard provide the framework by which nurses are expected to practice.
Why is there a need for nursing documentation
Good record keeping promotes
Who reads nursing records
What is expected of a registered nurse
Record keeping should demonstrate
Nurses accountability
Legal Matters of Nursing Record's
The health care system and the nursing profession is expanding globally , there fore it is important for nurses to know the trends, issues and challenges in new millennium.
Some of the most commonly occurring legal issues that impact on nursing and nursing practice are those relating to informed consent and refusing treatment as previously detailed, licensure, the safeguarding of clients' personal possessions and valuables, malpractice, negligence, mandatory reporting relating to gunshot....
The legal implications of nursing practice are tied to licensure, state and federal laws, scope of practice and a public expectation that nurses practice at a high professional standard. The nurse's education, license and nursing standard provide the framework by which nurses are expected to practice.
Why is there a need for nursing documentation
Good record keeping promotes
Who reads nursing records
What is expected of a registered nurse
Record keeping should demonstrate
Nurses accountability
Legal Matters of Nursing Record's
The health care system and the nursing profession is expanding globally , there fore it is important for nurses to know the trends, issues and challenges in new millennium.
Fetal hemoglobin and rh incompatibilityrohini sane
A comprehensive presentation on fetal hemoglobin & Rh incompatibility for undergraduate medical, dental, biotechnology & pharmacology students for self-learning .Presentation has physical & chemical properties of fetal hemoglobin along with its function. Binding affinity for O₂ of HbF and oxygen dissociation curve for HbF elucidated with suitable diagrams. Molecular constitution of Embryonic Hb ( Grover I &Grover II )with electrophoretic patterns are presented here . Importance of Kleihauer staining for detection of fetal cells is described briefly.
Diagrammatic representation of Rh- incompatibility is done for complete understanding of the concept. Signs & symptoms Kernicterus are presented diagrammatically.
Direct and indirect Coomb’s Test for Rh- incompatibility for diagnosis of Erythroblastosis Fetalis is illustrated. Biochemical aspects of Hemolytic Disease of Newborn (HDN) and Physiological /Neonatal Jaundice are presented. Comparison of Causes & biochemical findings for Hemolytic Jaundice along hepatic and obstructive jaundice is done in this presentation.
Molecular mechanism involved in biosynthesis of Hb Bart and Hb H along with their electrophoretic patterns for their detection are illustrated.
Hereditary persistent fetal Hb( HPFH ) & Point mutations causing HPFH are described in lucid manner. Google images are used for intense impact of the subject.
Chapter 11: Risk Management in
Selected High-Risk Hospital Depts
High Risk Depts. in Hospitals
All clinical depts. in hospitals have potential for risk, but some are greater than others:
Emergency Room
Obstetrics and Neonatology
Surgery and Anesthesia
Diagnostic Imaging
Treat highly vulnerable patients in often chaotic settings where the results of errors can be catastrophic and costly
Emergency Medicine
Which Definition?
AMA – any condition clinically determined to require immediate medical care
Federal Legislation – condition manifested by acute symptoms of sufficient severity that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to result in serious jeopardy to an individual’s health, serious impairment to bodily functions or serious dysfunction of any body organ or part
Clinicians –view emergencies as life-threatening situations
The mere existence of an ER implies a duty to treat any patient who arrives
Emergency Medicine Issues
Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA)
Pre-hospital services
Dept Capabilities and Staffing
Triage Process
Emergency Medicine Issues
Medical Records Documentation and Consent
Support Services
Departures, Discharges and Transfers
Risk Management
Obstetrics and Neonatology
Lawsuits in this category are usually the most expensive
Advanced technology has improved survival rates for infants but led to increased risks for facilities
Ethical Dilemmas
Standards and Guidelines
Levels of Care
Level 1 – least intensive and designed to treat low-risk mothers and babies
Level 2 – must be able to manage high-risk mothers, high-risk fetuses and small, sick neonates
Level 3 – must be able to monitor and maintain critical functions of mothers and neonates the nurse to patient ratio is more intensive as well
Obstetrics and Neonatology
Obstetrics and Neonatology
Prenatal and Perinatal Care
Intrapartum Period
Delivery
Neonatal Resuscitation and Management
Maternal Exam Post Delivery
Family Attendance Issues
Obstetrics and Neonatology
Medical Record Documentation
Neonatal Services
Infant Transport
Infant Abduction
Surgery and Anesthesia
Surgery and Anesthesia claims are usually co-dependent
Increased number of surgeries performed in outpatient or ambulatory settings with decrease in number of claims
Paid malpractice claims are higher in the outpatient setting
Handout Case Study
10
Surgery and Anesthesia
Negligence and Malpractice
Surgical Services Staff
Preoperative Assessment and Treatment
Intraoperative Risks
Postoperative Recovery
Documentation
Handout Case Study
11
Surgery and Anesthesia
Intraoperative Risks
Sedation and Anesthesia
Wrong Site, Wrong Procedure, Wrong Person
Implants
Retained Foreign Bodies
Patient Burns and Pressure Injuries
Surgical Fires
Handout Case Study
12
Diagnostic Imaging
Creating images of the human body utilizing various methods:
X-rays
Computed tomography (CT)
Interventional radiography
Ultrasound
Magnetic resonance imagine (MR ...
Gerontologic nursingChapter 3 Legal and Ethical IssuesMatthewTennant613
Gerontologic nursing
Chapter 3: Legal and Ethical Issues
Professional Standards
Health care providers have a general obligation to live up to accepted or customary standards of care
Federal and state statutes require nursing facilities to have written health care and safety policies
Sources of Law
Statutes are laws created by legislation and are enacted at the federal and state level
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)
In some states failure by clinicians to report suspected incidents of mistreatment is a misdemeanor punishable by fine or penalty
Sources of Law
HIPAA
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
1996
Increase a person’s ability to get health care coverage when the person begins a new job
Help maintain continuous health coverage when a change of job occurs
Limits the use of preexisting conditions
Sources of Law
Every state in America has mechanisms for reporting elder mistreatment
Adult Protective Services (APS) programs exist in each state
Standards of care for nursing homes are based on policy stipulated in the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 (Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, 1987)
Many states currently have mandatory reporting laws for elder mistreatment in which nurses & health care practitioners are required by law to report suspected cases
Elder Abuse
Categories of Elder Mistreatment
3 basic categories of elder mistreatment
Domestic treatment - older persons home – by child, spouse, In-law)
Institutional mistreatment – contractual arrangement & suffer abuse - LTC facilities, assisted living, rehabilitation or hospital
Self neglect or self abuse – are mentally competent enough to understand the consequences of their own decisions – that threaten their own safety
Institutional Mistreatment
The types of mistreatment that occur in nursing homes likely mirror those in domestic settings
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Neglect
Financial abuse
Psychological abuse
Researchers have also speculated that shortages of staff, inadequate training of staff & staff burnout may be precipitating factors in mistreatment of nursing home residents
Institutional Mistreatment
Delay in reporting incidents
Residents afraid of retribution
Family members may fear having to find a new nursing home
Staff may fear losing their jobs
Facing recrimination by other staff members
Want to avoid adverse publicity
Assessment
Ideally the older adult and any suspected abuser should be interviewed separately
Maintaining a nonjudgmental approach will enable the nurse to obtain more accurate data
The physical symptoms of elder mistreatment are often difficult for clinicians to discern because older adults may suffer from chronic and acute illness that mask or mimic the presence of mistreatment
Assessment
Their self reporting may be questioned for accuracy or they may be unable to express the mistreatment situation due to
Amnesia
Aphasia – total or partial loss of ability to speak ...
Ozempic: Preoperative Management of Patients on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Saeid Safari
Preoperative Management of Patients on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists like Ozempic and Semiglutide
ASA GUIDELINE
NYSORA Guideline
2 Case Reports of Gastric Ultrasound
Pulmonary Thromboembolism - etilogy, types, medical- Surgical and nursing man...VarunMahajani
Disruption of blood supply to lung alveoli due to blockage of one or more pulmonary blood vessels is called as Pulmonary thromboembolism. In this presentation we will discuss its causes, types and its management in depth.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN HEALTHCARE.pdfAnujkumaranit
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. It encompasses tasks such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language understanding. AI technologies are revolutionizing various fields, from healthcare to finance, by enabling machines to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
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Lung Cancer: Artificial Intelligence, Synergetics, Complex System Analysis, S...Oleg Kshivets
RESULTS: Overall life span (LS) was 2252.1±1742.5 days and cumulative 5-year survival (5YS) reached 73.2%, 10 years – 64.8%, 20 years – 42.5%. 513 LCP lived more than 5 years (LS=3124.6±1525.6 days), 148 LCP – more than 10 years (LS=5054.4±1504.1 days).199 LCP died because of LC (LS=562.7±374.5 days). 5YS of LCP after bi/lobectomies was significantly superior in comparison with LCP after pneumonectomies (78.1% vs.63.7%, P=0.00001 by log-rank test). AT significantly improved 5YS (66.3% vs. 34.8%) (P=0.00000 by log-rank test) only for LCP with N1-2. Cox modeling displayed that 5YS of LCP significantly depended on: phase transition (PT) early-invasive LC in terms of synergetics, PT N0—N12, cell ratio factors (ratio between cancer cells- CC and blood cells subpopulations), G1-3, histology, glucose, AT, blood cell circuit, prothrombin index, heparin tolerance, recalcification time (P=0.000-0.038). Neural networks, genetic algorithm selection and bootstrap simulation revealed relationships between 5YS and PT early-invasive LC (rank=1), PT N0—N12 (rank=2), thrombocytes/CC (3), erythrocytes/CC (4), eosinophils/CC (5), healthy cells/CC (6), lymphocytes/CC (7), segmented neutrophils/CC (8), stick neutrophils/CC (9), monocytes/CC (10); leucocytes/CC (11). Correct prediction of 5YS was 100% by neural networks computing (area under ROC curve=1.0; error=0.0).
CONCLUSIONS: 5YS of LCP after radical procedures significantly depended on: 1) PT early-invasive cancer; 2) PT N0--N12; 3) cell ratio factors; 4) blood cell circuit; 5) biochemical factors; 6) hemostasis system; 7) AT; 8) LC characteristics; 9) LC cell dynamics; 10) surgery type: lobectomy/pneumonectomy; 11) anthropometric data. Optimal diagnosis and treatment strategies for LC are: 1) screening and early detection of LC; 2) availability of experienced thoracic surgeons because of complexity of radical procedures; 3) aggressive en block surgery and adequate lymph node dissection for completeness; 4) precise prediction; 5) adjuvant chemoimmunoradiotherapy for LCP with unfavorable prognosis.
Title: Sense of Taste
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the structure and function of taste buds.
Describe the relationship between the taste threshold and taste index of common substances.
Explain the chemical basis and signal transduction of taste perception for each type of primary taste sensation.
Recognize different abnormalities of taste perception and their causes.
Key Topics:
Significance of Taste Sensation:
Differentiation between pleasant and harmful food
Influence on behavior
Selection of food based on metabolic needs
Receptors of Taste:
Taste buds on the tongue
Influence of sense of smell, texture of food, and pain stimulation (e.g., by pepper)
Primary and Secondary Taste Sensations:
Primary taste sensations: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Umami
Chemical basis and signal transduction mechanisms for each taste
Taste Threshold and Index:
Taste threshold values for Sweet (sucrose), Salty (NaCl), Sour (HCl), and Bitter (Quinine)
Taste index relationship: Inversely proportional to taste threshold
Taste Blindness:
Inability to taste certain substances, particularly thiourea compounds
Example: Phenylthiocarbamide
Structure and Function of Taste Buds:
Composition: Epithelial cells, Sustentacular/Supporting cells, Taste cells, Basal cells
Features: Taste pores, Taste hairs/microvilli, and Taste nerve fibers
Location of Taste Buds:
Found in papillae of the tongue (Fungiform, Circumvallate, Foliate)
Also present on the palate, tonsillar pillars, epiglottis, and proximal esophagus
Mechanism of Taste Stimulation:
Interaction of taste substances with receptors on microvilli
Signal transduction pathways for Umami, Sweet, Bitter, Sour, and Salty tastes
Taste Sensitivity and Adaptation:
Decrease in sensitivity with age
Rapid adaptation of taste sensation
Role of Saliva in Taste:
Dissolution of tastants to reach receptors
Washing away the stimulus
Taste Preferences and Aversions:
Mechanisms behind taste preference and aversion
Influence of receptors and neural pathways
Impact of Sensory Nerve Damage:
Degeneration of taste buds if the sensory nerve fiber is cut
Abnormalities of Taste Detection:
Conditions: Ageusia, Hypogeusia, Dysgeusia (parageusia)
Causes: Nerve damage, neurological disorders, infections, poor oral hygiene, adverse drug effects, deficiencies, aging, tobacco use, altered neurotransmitter levels
Neurotransmitters and Taste Threshold:
Effects of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) on taste sensitivity
Supertasters:
25% of the population with heightened sensitivity to taste, especially bitterness
Increased number of fungiform papillae
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New Directions in Targeted Therapeutic Approaches for Older Adults With Mantl...i3 Health
i3 Health is pleased to make the speaker slides from this activity available for use as a non-accredited self-study or teaching resource.
This slide deck presented by Dr. Kami Maddocks, Professor-Clinical in the Division of Hematology and
Associate Division Director for Ambulatory Operations
The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, will provide insight into new directions in targeted therapeutic approaches for older adults with mantle cell lymphoma.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare, aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) accounting for 5% to 7% of all lymphomas. Its prognosis ranges from indolent disease that does not require treatment for years to very aggressive disease, which is associated with poor survival (Silkenstedt et al, 2021). Typically, MCL is diagnosed at advanced stage and in older patients who cannot tolerate intensive therapy (NCCN, 2022). Although recent advances have slightly increased remission rates, recurrence and relapse remain very common, leading to a median overall survival between 3 and 6 years (LLS, 2021). Though there are several effective options, progress is still needed towards establishing an accepted frontline approach for MCL (Castellino et al, 2022). Treatment selection and management of MCL are complicated by the heterogeneity of prognosis, advanced age and comorbidities of patients, and lack of an established standard approach for treatment, making it vital that clinicians be familiar with the latest research and advances in this area. In this activity chaired by Michael Wang, MD, Professor in the Department of Lymphoma & Myeloma at MD Anderson Cancer Center, expert faculty will discuss prognostic factors informing treatment, the promising results of recent trials in new therapeutic approaches, and the implications of treatment resistance in therapeutic selection for MCL.
Target Audience
Hematology/oncology fellows, attending faculty, and other health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL).
Learning Objectives
1.) Identify clinical and biological prognostic factors that can guide treatment decision making for older adults with MCL
2.) Evaluate emerging data on targeted therapeutic approaches for treatment-naive and relapsed/refractory MCL and their applicability to older adults
3.) Assess mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies for MCL and their implications for treatment selection
Couples presenting to the infertility clinic- Do they really have infertility...Sujoy Dasgupta
Dr Sujoy Dasgupta presented the study on "Couples presenting to the infertility clinic- Do they really have infertility? – The unexplored stories of non-consummation" in the 13th Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE 2024) at Manila on 24 May, 2024.
These simplified slides by Dr. Sidra Arshad present an overview of the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract.
Learning objectives:
1. Enlist the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract
2. Briefly explain how these functions are carried out
3. Discuss the significance of dead space
4. Differentiate between minute ventilation and alveolar ventilation
5. Describe the cough and sneeze reflexes
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 39, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 34, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
3. Chapter 17, Human Physiology by Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
4. Non-respiratory functions of the lungs https://academic.oup.com/bjaed/article/13/3/98/278874
The prostate is an exocrine gland of the male mammalian reproductive system
It is a walnut-sized gland that forms part of the male reproductive system and is located in front of the rectum and just below the urinary bladder
Function is to store and secrete a clear, slightly alkaline fluid that constitutes 10-30% of the volume of the seminal fluid that along with the spermatozoa, constitutes semen
A healthy human prostate measures (4cm-vertical, by 3cm-horizontal, 2cm ant-post ).
It surrounds the urethra just below the urinary bladder. It has anterior, median, posterior and two lateral lobes
It’s work is regulated by androgens which are responsible for male sex characteristics
Generalised disease of the prostate due to hormonal derangement which leads to non malignant enlargement of the gland (increase in the number of epithelial cells and stromal tissue)to cause compression of the urethra leading to symptoms (LUTS
Tom Selleck Health: A Comprehensive Look at the Iconic Actor’s Wellness Journeygreendigital
Tom Selleck, an enduring figure in Hollywood. has captivated audiences for decades with his rugged charm, iconic moustache. and memorable roles in television and film. From his breakout role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. to his current portrayal of Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Selleck's career has spanned over 50 years. But beyond his professional achievements. fans have often been curious about Tom Selleck Health. especially as he has aged in the public eye.
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Introduction
Many have been interested in Tom Selleck health. not only because of his enduring presence on screen but also because of the challenges. and lifestyle choices he has faced and made over the years. This article delves into the various aspects of Tom Selleck health. exploring his fitness regimen, diet, mental health. and the challenges he has encountered as he ages. We'll look at how he maintains his well-being. the health issues he has faced, and his approach to ageing .
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Athletic Beginnings
Tom Selleck was born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. From an early age, he was involved in sports, particularly basketball. which played a significant role in his physical development. His athletic pursuits continued into college. where he attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. This early involvement in sports laid a strong foundation for his physical health and disciplined lifestyle.
Transition to Acting
Selleck's transition from an athlete to an actor came with its physical demands. His first significant role in "Magnum P.I." required him to perform various stunts and maintain a fit appearance. This role, which he played from 1980 to 1988. necessitated a rigorous fitness routine to meet the show's demands. setting the stage for his long-term commitment to health and wellness.
Fitness Regimen
Workout Routine
Tom Selleck health and fitness regimen has evolved. adapting to his changing roles and age. During his "Magnum, P.I." days. Selleck's workouts were intense and focused on building and maintaining muscle mass. His routine included weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises. and specific training for the stunts he performed on the show.
Selleck adjusted his fitness routine as he aged to suit his body's needs. Today, his workouts focus on maintaining flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. He incorporates low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light weightlifting. This balanced approach helps him stay fit without putting undue strain on his joints and muscles.
Importance of Flexibility and Mobility
In recent years, Selleck has emphasized the importance of flexibility and mobility in his fitness regimen. Understanding the natural decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. he includes stretching and yoga in his routine. These practices help prevent injuries, improve posture, and maintain mobilit
micro teaching on communication m.sc nursing.pdfAnurag Sharma
Microteaching is a unique model of practice teaching. It is a viable instrument for the. desired change in the teaching behavior or the behavior potential which, in specified types of real. classroom situations, tends to facilitate the achievement of specified types of objectives.
Constitutional laws, both federal and state, provide for basic rights and create the legislative bodies (senate and assembly) that write laws governing our lives.
In health care, agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services or Office of Professional Licensing oversee nursing and the other health care professions. Who is governed by administrative laws?
You may be guilty of a tort if you harm a patient, for example, by administering the wrong dose or type of medication. Serious crimes are called felonies and are punished with long prison terms of a year of more, or even the death penalty; less serious crimes are misdemeanors and may result in prison terms of less than a year, monetary fines, or both. What is another example of a situation in which a nurse may be guilty of a tort?
State licensure is required to practice nursing in the United States, and each state writes its own laws and regulations regarding licensure. How does our state’s nurse practice act delineate responsibilities and degrees of independence of RNs, VNs, and other nurses?
A passing score on the NCLEX-PN ® test is accepted by the states for initial licensure when all other state requirements for eligibility are met. Ask students to share their views on the licensure examination, its format, level of difficulty, and test preparation strategies. Although a growing number of states have developed reciprocity agreements, nurses who wish to practice in more than one state may need to apply for the nursing license in each state in which they practice. How would national licensure benefit the nurse?
Although a student nurse may not perform a task as quickly or as smoothly as the licensed nurse, the student will achieve the same outcome without harm to the patient. The instructor who supervises a student is responsible for proper instruction and adequate supervision and evaluation of a student. Instructors are responsible for assigning students to patients of an appropriate level of complexity so that they do not jeopardize patient safety.
Accountability means asking for assistance when unsure, performing nursing tasks in the safe and prescribed manner, reporting and documenting assessments and interventions, and evaluating the care given and the patient's response to that care. In addition to health care, what are some of the other types of professionals that are facing increased accountability lately? Discuss sources of continuing professional education, and ask students to provide examples in which friends and coworkers are pursuing continuing education.
Some states make a distinction between delegation (only to another licensed person) and assignment (to an unlicensed person). The nurse is responsible for ensuring patient safety and the observation of patient rights. Discuss a hierarchy of clinical and administrative tasks that might be delegated to each level of nursing trainee or professional. What steps might a licensed nurse take to ensure the person can handle the assignment safely?
Legally, a nurse is responsible for her or his actions under the nurse practice act and according to the standards of care that are approved by the profession. Standards are defined in nursing procedure books, institutional manuals of policies and procedures or protocols, and nursing journals that outline current skills or techniques. In what ways does the availability of written standards help the nursing student and the licensed nurse (in general and specifically for the procedure in question)?
When a licensed nurse is charged with a violation of a nurse practice act, there will be a hearing to determine if the charges are true. What may result when a nurse is found guilty of professional misconduct?
Nurses may stay current by attending programs provided by their employer; through participation in their professional organization; by attending workshops, seminars, or presentations on health care topics; by reading professional nursing journals; by formal continuing education in colleges; or by correspondence courses.
Discuss the federal government’s or your state’s role in ensuring compliance with OSHA. What experience with OSHA standards or documentation have students had? What would students do if OSHA requirements were not being followed in a practice setting in which they worked?
What may give health care personnel a clue that child abuse may have occurred? Discuss legal requirements in cases of suspected child abuse or neglect. What is the correct reporting chain of command for such incidents?
In 1964, federal legislation made it illegal for employers to discriminate (to hire, promote, or fire employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin). The law has been amended to include protection for people with disabilities, as well as discrimination based on age. To whom should students report discrimination they experience in the workplace?
In our society, in which sexual comments and activities are commonplace on television or in movies, we must be aware of the right time and place for sexually suggestive or explicit words or touch. What should you, as a nurse, do if you are being sexually harassed?
In most states, there is no legal requirement for a nurse to provide aid in an emergency. Who do the Good Samaritan laws NOT apply to? Why are these laws important to public health and safety?
Under some legally specified conditions, certain rights may be temporarily suspended, such as in an emergency when the patient is unconscious or unable to communicate. Who developed the “Patient’s Bill of Rights”? Ask students their views on why patients’ rights have come to the forefront of health care. What does the trend tell us about the profession and those served by the health care industry?
The Joint Commission's National Patient Safety Goals are updated every year, and are available on their website (www.jcipatientsafety.org). The National Patient Safety Goals and requirements apply to nearly 15,000 hospitals and health care organizations that are accredited by The Joint Commission. What are the differences in the way nurses and physicians are taught to communicate patient information?
The patient does have the right of access to the chart, and copies of information in the chart may be authorized by the patient to be provided to other agencies. The medical record contents always need to be accurate, pertinent, and timely. On what should charting be focused? How are electronic medical records, written records, and oral conversations safeguarded?
It is important that the nurse makes certain that she has the patient’s consent to relay information about his health care to family members. How can a patient have information sent to another agency, physician, or insurance company?
If the patient has any questions, they should be satisfactorily answered before the patient signs the consent. It is important to determine that proper consent has been obtained, both legally and ethically. Failure to obtain a valid informed consent may lead to charges of assault and battery, or invasion of privacy.
Do you need to know the content of a legal document when you are witnessing a signature on that document?
All 50 states recognize advance directives, but each state regulates advance directives differently, and an advance directive from one state may not be recognized in another, depending on the similarities or differences in their laws. Who writes a DNR order and what does it mean?
In nursing malpractice, a reasonably prudent person is a similarly educated, licensed, and experienced nurse. In order to prove malpractice, four elements must be present: duty, a breach of duty, causation, and injury. Ask students to provide an example of each illegal act.
What is litigation?
Adults who are alert and oriented have the right to refuse medications, baths, treatments, dressing changes, irrigations, insertion of a catheter, and diagnostic tests as well as surgery. It is the nurse’s responsibility to explain the reason why a particular drug or treatment is important. If the patient still refuses, the nurse should obtain a release from liability because the treatment is not done or the drug is not taken.
A person sued for slander or libel may be found innocent if the statements made were true, or were said or written with no intent to harm the person, but for a justified purpose. Ask students to provide an example of each illegal act.
When patients entrust themselves to our care, it is with the expectation of confidentiality—that what is told to the health care professional and what is learned about the patient’s health and personal history is private information to which no one else should have access. What is a growing area of concern regarding privacy?
When a person wants to leave the hospital against the advice of the physician, a release to leave "against medical advice" (AMA) is used. What information may policies require be given to the patient signing an AMA?
Nurses must be alert to the abuse of protective devices when other less restrictive techniques may be effective. Nurses should consult with their supervisor about using protective devices in an emergency situation when no physician order is available.
Establishing rapport and effective communication skills can create a relationship in which patient anger or misunderstanding can be resolved rather than grow to lawsuit proportions. What should the nurse do if hospital rules are out-of-date or unrealistic?
Incident reports should be timely, factual, and concise, and should not contain unnecessary details, such as explanations about why the event might have occurred. How does the incident report benefit the facility?
Most authors agree that it is unwise to rely on your employer's liability insurance policy to protect you because there may be situations in which the interests of the institution are at odds with your legal interests.
There are no prescribed legal penalties for violating a code of ethics, although in many instances, violation of a professional code of ethics may result in disciplinary action by a licensing or regulating agency. What are ethics closely linked to?
The International Council of Nurses (ICN), the American Nurses Association (ANA), the National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES), and the National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN) have developed codes of ethics for nurses. Who has set standards for nursing since 1941?
On a daily basis, nurses face personal ethical decisions involving honesty, whistle-blowing (reporting illegal or unethical actions), and provision of care. Our professional code of ethics dictates that we act as patient advocates and safeguard our patients from harm. What values does the nurses’ code of ethics promote?