Which of the following is a duty of care in nursing practice?

Which of the following is a duty of care in nursing practice?

• A. Ensuring client confidentiality
• B. Providing specialized medical advice
• C. Neglecting to report signs of abuse
• D. Always working independently

Answer: (A)

Ensuring client confidentiality is a fundamental duty of care in nursing practice. This responsibility is rooted in the ethical principles of respect for persons and privacy, as well as legal requirements such as those found in privacy legislation. Nurses are obligated to protect the personal health information of their clients and maintain trust in the nurse-client relationship. By safeguarding confidentiality, nurses not only uphold professional standards but also foster a safe environment where clients feel secure in sharing sensitive information. In contrast, the other options represent actions or attitudes that do not align with the ethical and legal obligations of nursing practice. Providing specialized medical advice may be outside the scope of practice for a nurse unless they have received the appropriate training and authorization, which can complicate the nurse's duty of care. Neglecting to report signs of abuse directly contradicts the duty to protect vulnerable individuals and can lead to significant harm. Finally, always working independently does not reflect the collaborative nature of nursing practice, which often requires teamwork and communication with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for clients.

Ensuring client confidentiality is a fundamental duty of care in nursing practice. This responsibility is rooted in the ethical principles of respect for persons and privacy, as well as legal requirements such as those found in privacy legislation. Nurses are obligated to protect the personal health information of their clients and maintain trust in the nurse-client relationship. By safeguarding confidentiality, nurses not only uphold professional standards but also foster a safe environment where clients feel secure in sharing sensitive information.

In contrast, the other options represent actions or attitudes that do not align with the ethical and legal obligations of nursing practice. Providing specialized medical advice may be outside the scope of practice for a nurse unless they have received the appropriate training and authorization, which can complicate the nurse's duty of care. Neglecting to report signs of abuse directly contradicts the duty to protect vulnerable individuals and can lead to significant harm. Finally, always working independently does not reflect the collaborative nature of nursing practice, which often requires teamwork and communication with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for clients.