Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Inadequate staffing experienced by PMH is an example of which of the following?

1. Ethical dilemma

2. Moral distress

3. Relational ethics

4. Professional misconduct

The correct answer is: Moral distress

Moral distress occurs when a nurse recognizes the ethically appropriate action to take but feels powerless to act on it due to constraints such as inadequate staffing. In the context of a mental health unit facing inadequate staffing, the staff may be aware that they cannot provide the level of care their patients need, which can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt, and ethical conflict. This situation epitomizes moral distress as it affects the caregiver’s ability to fulfill their professional obligations and maintain their ethical standards due to systemic issues that restrict their actions. Understanding moral distress is crucial for healthcare professionals, as it can impact their well-being and the quality of patient care.