Problem
Discuss what it means to be responsible and accountable in the nursing profession. Use the case study below to guide your response and answer the reflective questions below.
Nurse P, an LVN, had worked for a nursing home in a small Midwestern community for 10 years. Over the years, Nurse P gained the trust and respect of everyone she worked with or cared for on the job. Nurse P's reputation was very good in the community as well. One day, a resident asked Nurse P, "Go to my purse and get my glasses, would you please?" The resident had made this request many times before, so Nurse P sensed no reason for concern. Several hours later, a family member noticed that the resident was missing some cash and a wedding ring, which she kept in her purse "for safe-keeping." The resident recalled asking Nurse P to retrieve the glasses from the purse. Other residents and staff had also seen Nurse P looking in the resident's purse. The case went to small claims court. Nurse P was found guilty and was made to pay restitution. In addition, Nurse P's license to practice nursing in that state was revoked.
What could Nurse P have done to avoid this situation? What are your thoughts about this situation? For the resident? For Nurse P? For the "fairness" of the situation? What are your feelings about this situation? What is Nurse P's chances of becoming licensed again?