In Hofling's nurse obedience study, how many obeyed a doctor over the phone prescribing lethal drug?

In Hofling's nurse obedience study, how many obeyed a doctor over the phone prescribing lethal drug?

• A. 0 out of 22
• B. 5 out of 22
• C. 21 out of 22
• D. 11 out of 22

Answer: (C)

The situation tests how strongly people comply with authority, especially in a professional setting. In Hofling’s study, nurses were ordered by a doctor over the phone to administer a drug at a high dose that violated hospital policy. Even with the lack of on-site supervision and the risk to patient safety, the majority followed the order. Specifically, twenty-one of twenty-two nurses carried out the prescription. This shows how perceived legitimacy and proximity of an authority figure can override personal judgment and established rules. It also highlights why safeguards—like verification by a second physician, on-site presence, or clear policies allowing nurses to refuse unsafe orders—are crucial in healthcare.

The situation tests how strongly people comply with authority, especially in a professional setting. In Hofling’s study, nurses were ordered by a doctor over the phone to administer a drug at a high dose that violated hospital policy. Even with the lack of on-site supervision and the risk to patient safety, the majority followed the order. Specifically, twenty-one of twenty-two nurses carried out the prescription. This shows how perceived legitimacy and proximity of an authority figure can override personal judgment and established rules. It also highlights why safeguards—like verification by a second physician, on-site presence, or clear policies allowing nurses to refuse unsafe orders—are crucial in healthcare.