College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) Practice Test 2025 - Free Nursing Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

An expected outcome of ethical decision-making in nursing is the improvement of patient outcomes and satisfaction. When nurses engage in ethical decision-making, they consider the best interests of the patient, the ethical principles involved, and the values of the individuals receiving care. This thoughtful approach can lead to more effective treatment plans, greater adherence to care protocols, and generally better healthcare experiences for patients.

Moreover, ethical decision-making fosters a culture of respect, trust, and collaboration within the healthcare environment. When patients feel that their care is being managed with ethical considerations in mind, they are more likely to engage in their health care process, follow recommendations, and report higher levels of satisfaction with their care. This ultimately contributes to better health outcomes, as patients who trust their healthcare providers are typically more cooperative and invested in their treatment plans.

The other options imply negative outcomes that do not align with the objectives of ethical decision-making in nursing. Increased conflicts within the care team and lack of trust from clients are contrary to the purpose of ethical guidelines, which seek cohesiveness and collaboration. Delayed decision-making can impede timely care, which is not an expected outcome of a strong ethical framework; rather, ethical decision-making aims to facilitate efficient and effective resolutions.

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