An example of a criminal action committed by a nurse is a. ...

[vHAUNG6011]

An example of a criminal action committed by a nurse is
 
  a. restraining a patient without a physician's order.
  b. releasing information without the patient's consent.
  c. discontinuing a ventilator without a physician's order.
  d. making a medication error.

Question 2

To function within the scope of the law, the nurse must know that the legal duties and functions of the nurse in a given state are determined by the
 
  a. U.S. Constitution.
  b. Bill of Rights.
  c. bylaws of the professional organization.
  d. Nurse Practice Act of the state.

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Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Commission of a felony, such as murder, is clearly a criminal act. The other options represent examples of torts, or matters of civil concern.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
The Nurse Practice Act of each state determines the scope of practice of RNs and LPN/LVNs in that state. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights are incorrect answers, because matters dealing with the health and welfare of its citizens are states' rights. Professional organizations may issue position papers, but these do not have the force of law.