Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse (CAPA) Practice Exam

What type of dilemma is faced by a perianesthesia nurse who does not support elective abortion?

1. Ethical dilemma

2. Moral dilemma

3. Moral obligation

4. Ethical reflection

The correct answer is: Moral dilemma

In the context of a perianesthesia nurse who does not support elective abortion, the situation represents a moral dilemma. A moral dilemma occurs when an individual faces a conflict between personal values or beliefs and the actions they must undertake in their professional role. This type of dilemma often involves deeply held beliefs about right and wrong, which can cause internal conflict for the nurse when providing care in situations that conflict with their personal convictions. In this specific case, the nurse’s opposition to elective abortion presents a challenge when caring for patients who may seek this procedure. The nurse may experience tension between their moral beliefs and the ethical obligation to provide comprehensive care without judgment. This conflict can lead to feelings of stress or hesitation in performing their duties, reflecting the essence of a moral dilemma as it involves personal belief systems intertwined with professional responsibilities. Other terms, such as ethical dilemma, moral obligation, and ethical reflection, describe different aspects of decision-making processes but do not capture the specific nature of the conflict arising from personal morals in this scenario. An ethical dilemma usually involves broader implications of professional ethics that may not necessarily align with personal beliefs; therefore, it does not accurately characterize the situation faced by the nurse.