A nurse is caring for an older adult client whom the nurse suspects has experienced abuse by a nonpartner. Which of the following principles does the nurse demonstrate by reporting their concern to a supervisor?

Choice A reason: Reporting suspected abuse demonstrates ethical decision-making, as nurses are mandated reporters and must act to protect vulnerable clients. Ethical decision-making involves applying professional standards, laws, and moral principles to ensure safety and justice. By escalating the concern to a supervisor, the nurse fulfills their ethical responsibility to safeguard the client. Choice B reason: Trusting relationships are important in nursing, but reporting abuse is not primarily about building trust—it is about protecting the client and fulfilling legal and ethical obligations. While trust may be strengthened by advocacy, the core principle demonstrated here is ethical decision-making. Choice C reason: Human dignity refers to respecting the inherent worth of every individual. While reporting abuse indirectly supports dignity by protecting the client, the specific principle demonstrated in the act of reporting is ethical decision-making, which guides the nurse’s actions in response to suspected harm. Choice D reason: Nonmaleficence is the obligation to do no harm. While reporting abuse helps prevent further harm, the act itself is guided by ethical decision-making processes rather than the principle of nonmaleficence alone. The nurse’s action reflects adherence to professional ethics and legal mandates.