CFN Legal & Ethical Responsibilities in Forensic Nursing

Question 1

What is the primary ethical duty of a forensic nurse?

Accepted Answer

Ensure patient welfare and uphold ethical standards

Answer

Maintain strict law enforcement loyalty.

Answer

Focus solely on evidence collection.

Answer

Report everything without consent.

Question 2

When can a forensic nurse share confidential patient information?

Accepted Answer

Only under patient consent or legal mandate

Answer

When the nurse feels it is important.

Answer

With the media's request.

Answer

At any time in a criminal case.

Question 3

Which legal document allows a forensic nurse to perform an exam without consent in certain jurisdictions?

Accepted Answer

A court order or legal warrant

Answer

A hospital note.

Answer

A police request.

Answer

Verbal agreement from a friend.

Question 4

Why is informed consent critical in forensic nursing?

Accepted Answer

It validates patient understanding and participation

Answer

It speeds up documentation.

Answer

It reduces legal responsibility.

Answer

It allows exams without explanation.

Question 5

What is an ethical conflict forensic nurses may face?

Accepted Answer

Balancing patient autonomy with legal mandates

Answer

Determining the best hospital.

Answer

Choosing uniforms.

Answer

Communicating with family.

Question 6

How should forensic nurses document patient interactions?

Accepted Answer

Document accurately and objectively

Answer

Write based on assumptions.

Answer

Include emotional judgments.

Answer

Use abbreviations liberally.

Question 7

What is a forensic nurse’s responsibility when witnessing abuse?

Accepted Answer

Report suspected abuse as required by law

Answer

Wait for the patient to tell law enforcement.

Answer

Consult a colleague first.

Answer

Ignore unless injuries are severe.

Question 8

Why must forensic nurses avoid dual relationships with patients?

Accepted Answer

They threaten neutrality and ethical boundaries

Answer

They help reduce anxiety.

Answer

They encourage openness.

Answer

They simplify procedures.

Question 9

What legal principle ensures a patient’s right to refuse care?

Accepted Answer

Autonomy

Answer

Paternalism.

Answer

Beneficence.

Answer

Veracity.