Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Practice Exam

What should a nurse do if they cannot perform their duties due to a personal issue?

1. Ignore the issue and continue working

2. Notify their supervisor and seek assistance

3. Discuss the issue with their coworkers

4. Take personal leave without notifying anyone

The correct answer is: Notify their supervisor and seek assistance

When a nurse is unable to perform their duties because of a personal issue, notifying their supervisor and seeking assistance is the most responsible course of action. This approach maintains professional standards and ensures patient care is not compromised. By communicating with their supervisor, the nurse can explain their situation, which may lead to adjustments in their workload, temporary reassignment, or other support solutions. This action also adheres to ethical standards in nursing, as the nurse prioritizes patient safety and care above personal concerns. Effective communication allows for a collaborative approach to managing personal and professional responsibilities, fostering a supportive work environment for both the nurse and their colleagues. In contrast, ignoring the issue and continuing to work could lead to decreased performance, potential safety risks for patients, and ultimately harm to the nurse’s professional reputation. Discussing the personal issue with coworkers may unintentionally burden them and is not a professional way to address the situation. Taking personal leave without notifying anyone does not provide an opportunity for the supervisor to make necessary adjustments to ensure care continuity and can lead to confusion and staff shortages.