Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Practice Exam

Which of the following behaviors is considered "unprofessional conduct" under the Texas Nursing Practice Act?

1. Providing patient education

2. Engaging in unethical practices and fraud

3. Maintaining patient confidentiality

4. Collaborating with healthcare teams

The correct answer is: Engaging in unethical practices and fraud

Engaging in unethical practices and fraud is categorized as "unprofessional conduct" under the Texas Nursing Practice Act because it violates the fundamental ethical standards and legal responsibilities that govern nursing practice. Nurses are expected to uphold integrity and trustworthiness in their professional roles. Committing acts of fraud undermines the confidence that patients and the public have in the nursing profession and can lead to serious legal repercussions, as it compromises patient care and safety. Other behaviors listed, such as providing patient education, maintaining patient confidentiality, and collaborating with healthcare teams, are aspects that reflect professionalism and ethical practice in nursing. These actions contribute positively to patient care, enhance the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship, and promote a collaborative environment in healthcare settings. Therefore, engaging in unethical practices is distinctly inappropriate and classified as unprofessional conduct, highlighting the importance of ethical standards in nursing.