A nurse is experiencing an ethical dilemma with a patient. Recognizing what information as a factor indicates the nurse has a correct understanding of the primary cause of ethical dilemmas?

A. Unequal power may contribute to the issue, but it is not the primary cause of ethical dilemmas. B. Presence of conflicting values is the primary cause of ethical dilemmas. This occurs when the nurse’s personal, professional, or institutional values conflict with the patient’s preferences or the care that should be provided. C. Poor communication can be a factor, but it’s not the core issue. D. Judgmental perceptions may affect the decision-making process, but it does not constitute the primary cause.