Nursing Jurisprudence and Ethics for Texas Nurses Practice Exam

What consequence may occur for a nurse who engages in fraudulent behavior regarding medication?

1. A warning from the hospital administration

2. Disciplinary action by the Texas Board of Nursing

3. Relocation to a different department

4. Increased supervision by colleagues

The correct answer is: Disciplinary action by the Texas Board of Nursing

Engaging in fraudulent behavior regarding medication is a serious violation of nursing ethics and the law. When a nurse commits acts such as falsifying medication records, diverting drugs for personal use, or misrepresenting administered medications, it undermines patient safety and trust in the healthcare system. The Texas Board of Nursing has the authority to take disciplinary measures against nurses who are found guilty of such misconduct. This can include suspension or revocation of the nurse's license, establishing a clear consequence that underscores the importance of accountability in nursing practice. Such actions protect public welfare and maintain the integrity of the nursing profession. The other potential outcomes, such as a warning from hospital administration, relocation to a different department, or increased supervision, do not carry the same weight of consequence as disciplinary action from the Board. While these might be actions taken in response to other types of misconduct or less severe infractions, they do not represent the serious legal implications associated with fraudulent behavior regarding medication. Therefore, the disciplinary action enforced by the Texas Board of Nursing is the most appropriate and significant consequence for such actions.