Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Is it acceptable for a nurse to meet their own needs through a patient's family member?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: False

Meeting personal needs through a patient's family member is not considered acceptable nursing practice. Nurses have a professional and ethical obligation to maintain clear boundaries in their relationships with patients and their families. Engaging with a patient's family member to fulfill personal needs can lead to conflicts of interest and can compromise the integrity of the nurse-patient relationship. Nursing is built on principles such as respect, professionalism, and patient advocacy. By placing one's own needs above those of the patient, the nurse may inadvertently compromise the quality of care provided, potentially leading to ethical violations or breaches of trust. Professional boundaries are crucial for maintaining a therapeutic relationship and ensuring that care remains focused on the patient's well-being. In addition, nurses are expected to seek support for their personal needs through appropriate channels, such as peer support or professional counseling, rather than utilizing patients' family members, who are often in vulnerable situations themselves. This helps preserve the professionalism and ethical integrity required in nursing practice.