Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

What type of gifts can nurses accept from health consumers?

1. Cash gifts of any amount

2. Token gifts of small value

3. Large items of significant value

4. Gifts that can influence care decisions

The correct answer is: Token gifts of small value

Nurses are often governed by ethical guidelines which promote professionalism and the integrity of the nurse-patient relationship. Under these guidelines, accepting gifts can be a sensitive issue. The acceptance of token gifts of small value is widely accepted within the nursing profession because these gifts are unlikely to create a significant influence on the care provided. Such gifts may include items like homemade treats, small holiday gifts, or other gestures of appreciation that do not carry a substantial monetary value. These token gifts can help build a positive therapeutic relationship without compromising professional boundaries or raising concerns about favoritism or conflicts of interest. In contrast, cash gifts of any amount, large items of significant value, and gifts that could influence care decisions may lead to ethical dilemmas. Cash presents a clear conflict of interest and may create expectation for favors in return. Large gifts can also lead to similar issues, as they can imply a level of indebtedness or obligation. Gifts intended to influence care decisions directly compromise the integrity of clinical judgment and the nurse's primary obligation to act in the best interest of the patient. Thus, accepting only token gifts of small value maintains the integrity of the nursing profession while allowing for expressions of gratitude from patients.