A nurse in a mental health facility is caring for a client who expresses anxiety about exercising in the outdoor courtyard. The nurse promises to walk with the client in the courtyard each day. Which of the following ethical principles is the nurse demonstrating?
Explanation & Rationale
Fidelity, also known as loyalty or faithfulness, refers to the nurse's commitment to keeping promises and fulfilling their responsibilities to the client. By promising to walk with the client in the outdoor courtyard each day, the nurse is demonstrating fidelity by maintaining their commitment to the client's well-being and providing the support needed to alleviate anxiety. Autonomy refers to the client's right to make decisions about their own care and treatment. While the nurse's promise supports the client's autonomy by accommodating their preference for exercising in the courtyard, it is not the principle being demonstrated by the nurse. Justice refers to fairness and equality in healthcare, ensuring equitable treatment and distribution of resources. While justice is an important ethical principle, it is not directly applicable in this situation. Nonmaleficence is the principle of doing no harm and taking action to prevent harm to the client. While the nurse's promise of walking with the client aligns with the goal of reducing anxiety, it is not specifically related to preventing harm.