Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam

Reporting unsafe nursing practice is essential. Which of the following options best describes the protection offered to the reporting nurse?

1. The nurse can appeal termination decisions based on the unsafe practice reports

2. The nurse can be disciplined by the BON if the report is found to be unsubstantiated

3. The nurse is shielded from employer retaliation under Texas law

4. The nurse must inform the reported party of the report

The correct answer is: The nurse can appeal termination decisions based on the unsafe practice reports

By reporting unsafe nursing practice, the nurse is doing their part in ensuring patient safety and maintaining the standards of nursing practice. Option A is the best description as it offers the most protection to the reporting nurse. Option B is incorrect because the nurse can only be disciplined if the report is found to be true, not if it is unsubstantiated. Option C is incorrect because while there are laws protecting whistleblowers in different states, Texas does not have specific laws protecting nurses from employer retaliation. Option D is incorrect because the nurse is not required to inform the reported party of the report, as this may lead to potential conflict or retaliation.