Patient Advocacy & Rights

1. A 78-year-old patient with early dementia is preparing for discharge. He nods during explanations but later tells another nurse he is “not sure what happens next.”
Which action best demonstrates the LPN’s role in patient advocacy? *
2. A patient recovering from pneumonia insists on going home, even though he requires oxygen therapy and lives alone. He appears anxious when discussing his limitations.
What is the LPN’s priority advocacy action? *
3. A patient with chronic pain reports feeling dismissed by previous healthcare providers. During assessment, he says, “You won’t take me seriously either.” Which advocacy action should the LPN take first? *
4. A patient who identifies as LGBTQ+ expresses fear of discrimination and asks whether the staff will respect their identity. Which response best supports patient rights? *
5. A patient refuses a community support referral despite clearly struggling with daily activities. The care team wants to proceed without his consent. How should the LPN advocate for the patient? *
6. A patient with limited financial resources says he cannot afford prescribed medication. He appears embarrassed. Which action best reflects advocacy for equitable care? *
7. A teenager with a chronic illness wants to participate in decisions about her treatment, but her parents answer all questions for her. How should the LPN advocate for the patient’s autonomy? *
8. A patient nearing discharge expresses worry about being unable to manage wound care at home. The physician has already signed discharge papers. What is the LPN’s best advocacy action? *
9. A patient from a cultural community believes certain treatments interfere with spiritual practices. He wants alternatives but feels afraid to question the team. Which LPN action best protects the patient’s rights? *
10. Mrs. Dutil, 83, is being discharged after surgery. She lives alone and tells the LPN, “My neighbour used to help, but she moved last month. I don’t have anyone.” The care team assumes she can manage with written instructions and dismisses her concerns. How should the LPN advocate for her? *
11. A patient with an infected wound needs urgent debridement. He refuses, saying, “You’re trying to hurt me.” The LPN realizes he misunderstands the purpose and thinks the procedure is optional. What is the LPN’s legal responsibility? *
12. A 21-year-old with Crohn’s disease is overwhelmed by new treatments and says, “I don’t have anyone to help me. I feel completely alone.” The LPN sees he is missing doses because he forgets instructions. Which advocacy action is most appropriate? *
13. A teenager with epilepsy is stable for discharge. The parents tell the LPN, “Please don’t tell her too much—it will stress her. Just talk to us.” The teen is 17, understands well, and asks, “Can I know what I need to do at home?” What is the nurse’s ethical and legal obligation? *
14. A patient with mobility limitations is planned for discharge even though his apartment building elevator is broken. The LPN knows he cannot safely manage stairs and the team is rushing due to bed shortages. What is the LPN’s advocacy responsibility? *
15. A patient newly prescribed anticoagulants says, “I’m not worried about this. I only take pills when I feel like it.” The LPN realizes he does not understand the risk of stroke or bleeding. What must the LPN do? *
16. An elderly woman wants home-care nursing. Her adult son says, “We don’t need that. Don’t sign her up.” The patient whispers to the LPN, “I do want help, but he gets angry.” What is the nurse’s obligation? *
17. Mr. Langlois has mild cognitive impairment. He tries to follow teaching but becomes confused when given multiple instructions at once. His spouse is present but equally overwhelmed. How should the LPN advocate for him? *