The nurse has learned during nursing school to maintain honesty and openness with all clients, even when conveying potentially distressing information. This approach aligns with the ethical principle of
The nurse has learned during nursing school to maintain honesty and openness with all clients, even when conveying potentially distressing information. This approach aligns with the ethical principle of
A. beneficence.
[10%]
B. veracity.
[62%]
C. nonmaleficence.
[6%]
D. fidelity.
[23%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Leadership & Management
Lesson
Ethical/Legal
Client Need
Test Plan
Management of Care
Related Topic
Ethical Practice
Item Type
Item Type
Analysis
Explanation
Choice B is correct. You demonstrate adherence to the ethical principle of veracity when you are open, frank, and truthful with all clients, even when the information may be upsetting and distressing to the client.
Choice A is incorrect. You are not following the ethical principle of beneficence when you are open, frank, and truthful with all of your clients, even when information may be upsetting and distressing to the client. Beneficence is defined as “doing good” for our clients.
Choice C is incorrect. You are not following the ethical principle of nonmaleficence when you are open, frank, and truthful with all of your clients, even when information may be upsetting and distressing to the client. Nonmaleficence is defined as “doing no harm” to our clients.
Choice D is incorrect. You are not following the ethical principle of fidelity when you are open, frank, and truthful with all of your clients, even when information may be upsetting and distressing to the client. Fidelity is defined as being faithful to our promises to our clients.
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2 Key Topics

Veracity
15.10 Ethical Principles in Healthcare
Additional Info
✓ Being open and truthful with clients fosters trust in the nurse-client relationship. When clients perceive that their nurse is honest and transparent, they are more likely to trust the information provided and follow through with recommended care plans.
✓ Honesty and openness respect the ethical principle of autonomy. Clients have the right to be active participants in their healthcare decisions. By providing information, nurses support clients in exercising their autonomy.
✓ Nurses should consider cultural differences in communication styles and preferences. Some clients may value directness, while others may prefer a more indirect or gradual approach to receiving difficult information.