Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

What is the primary responsibility of a nurse once they accept a patient into their care?

1. To administer medication as prescribed

2. To ensure the patient's family is informed

3. To prevent harm to the patient

4. To document every interaction with the patient

The correct answer is: To prevent harm to the patient

The primary responsibility of a nurse upon accepting a patient into their care is to prevent harm to the patient. This duty encompasses a wide range of responsibilities and actions, all oriented toward ensuring the patient's safety and well-being. The foundational concept of "do no harm" is at the core of nursing ethics and practice, guiding nurses in every aspect of patient care. This responsibility involves not only monitoring the patient's physical condition but also being vigilant about potential safety risks, administering care properly, and recognizing when to intervene in order to prevent adverse outcomes. It is essential for nurses to create an environment where patients feel safe and where their health is prioritized. While administering medication, keeping families informed, and documenting interactions are all important aspects of nursing care, they are part of a broader framework that ultimately supports the primary responsibility of preventing harm. Without the foundation of safety, the other tasks have less significance and can even lead to increased risk for the patient. Thus, the emphasis on harm prevention is the most critical in the context of nursing responsibilities.