Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

Why is there a need for professional boundaries in nurse-health consumer relationships?

1. To maintain a personal connection

2. To prevent power imbalances and protect the consumer

3. To facilitate informal communication

4. To allow nurses to be friends with consumers

The correct answer is: To prevent power imbalances and protect the consumer

Professional boundaries are essential in nurse-health consumer relationships to ensure that the relationship remains focused on the health consumer's well-being and needs. Establishing these boundaries helps to prevent power imbalances that can arise due to the inherent authority and knowledge that nurses possess in relation to their consumers. By maintaining clear boundaries, nurses can protect consumers from potential exploitation or manipulation, fostering a safe environment that promotes trust and respect. The necessity of professional boundaries also safeguards the integrity of the nursing profession and ensures that nurses focus on providing care rather than getting personally involved with their consumers. This allows for a more objective and effective approach to healthcare, where the primary concern is the health consumer's welfare rather than any potential emotional entanglements. Moreover, by supporting an ethical framework, professional boundaries contribute to the establishment of a therapeutic relationship rather than a personal one, which is crucial in maintaining professionalism in nursing practice.