Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Which ethical responsibility is NOT directly linked with professional relationships in nursing?

1. Maintaining confidentiality

2. Prioritizing personal beliefs

3. Engaging with patients respectfully

4. Advocating for vulnerable populations

The correct answer is: Prioritizing personal beliefs

Prioritizing personal beliefs is not directly linked with professional relationships in nursing because the focus within professional nursing practice should be on the needs and rights of the patients rather than personal ideologies. Nurses are ethically bound to place the welfare of their patients at the forefront of their practice, which may sometimes require setting aside personal beliefs to provide unbiased and equitable care. Maintaining confidentiality, engaging with patients respectfully, and advocating for vulnerable populations all directly foster healthy and supportive professional relationships, demonstrating the commitment of nurses to their patients' well-being and dignity. In contrast, allowing personal beliefs to take precedence can interfere with the nurse's ability to provide compassionate and effective care.