Ambulatory Care Nurse Certification Practice Exam

The principle of professional boundaries emphasizes the importance of clear and appropriate limits in the nurse-patient relationship, ensuring that the focus remains on the patient's well-being. The correct answer highlights that it is not the responsibility of the patient to establish and maintain these boundaries. Instead, the responsibility lies primarily with the nurse.

This is critical because nurses are in a position of power and trust, and it is their duty to set the tone for the relationship. This includes understanding the professional role and avoiding any expectations that patients should manage the dynamics or boundaries within the therapeutic relationship. Setting the appropriate boundaries helps create a safe environment that fosters trust and encourages open communication, which is essential for effective care.

Furthermore, maintaining professional boundaries protects both the nurse and the patient from potential exploitation and ensures that the nurse’s professional judgment is not clouded by personal feelings or biases. Thus, the focus remains on providing care that is both ethical and beneficial.