Which of the following actions would be considered unethical for a nurse?

Accepting gifts from patients can be considered unethical for a nurse because it may lead to a conflict of interest or create a perception of favoritism, which could compromise the nurse's professionalism and objectivity. It raises concerns about the boundaries of the nurse-patient relationship, as gifts might influence the care provided or the way a patient is treated. Ethical nursing practice emphasizes the importance of maintaining a professional demeanor and prioritizing patient welfare without outside influences.

In contrast, maintaining patient confidentiality, advocating for a patient's best interests, and following medical protocols are all fundamental ethical principles in nursing practice. These actions help to build trust with patients, ensure their rights are respected, and provide high-quality, evidence-based care. Hence, while all the other actions align with ethical standards, accepting gifts introduces potential ethical dilemmas.