Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What concept describes the assumption that all ethical action is situated in relationship?

1. Relational ethics

2. Moral distress

3. Boundary violation

4. Consent

The correct answer is: Relational ethics

Relational ethics is the concept that emphasizes the importance of relationships in ethical decision-making. This viewpoint posits that ethical actions cannot be understood in isolation; instead, they are inherently tied to the dynamics and context of the relationships between individuals. It highlights how interactions, connections, and the social context in which they occur shape moral responsibilities and obligations. In relational ethics, considerations such as trust, respect, and mutuality are key factors that influence what is considered ethical behavior. This approach recognizes that individuals are part of a network of relationships that must be considered when assessing the moral dimensions of actions. Essentially, it encourages nurses and healthcare providers to navigate ethical dilemmas with an awareness of how their actions affect others within their professional and personal relationships, fostering a more holistic understanding of healthcare ethics. The other concepts, such as moral distress and boundary violation, relate to ethical challenges but do not specifically focus on the relational aspect of ethical actions. Moral distress refers to the emotional turmoil experienced when one knows the ethically appropriate action to take but is unable to act upon it, while boundary violations pertain to the inappropriate breaches of professional relationships. Consent, although critical in ethical practice, primarily relates to the agreement by a person to participate in a treatment or research study, rather than the