Nursing Elites

1. A 27-year-old patient admitted with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has a serum glucose level of 732 mg/dL and serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L. Which action prescribed by the healthcare provider should the nurse take first?

• A. Place the patient on a cardiac monitor
• B. Administer IV potassium supplements
• C. Obtain urine glucose and ketone levels
• D. Start an insulin infusion at 0.1 units/kg/hr

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the initial priority is to assess for any cardiac arrhythmias due to electrolyte imbalances. Since the patient has a low serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L, placing the patient on a cardiac monitor is crucial to monitor for any potential cardiac complications. Administering IV potassium supplements (Choice B) may be needed, but it is not the first action to take. Obtaining urine glucose and ketone levels (Choice C) and starting an insulin infusion (Choice D) are important interventions in managing DKA, but ensuring patient safety by monitoring for arrhythmias takes precedence.

2. Which theory emphasizes the long-range plan rather than rewards?

• A. Equity theory.
• B. Development.
• C. Goal setting.
• D. Extinction.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Goal setting. Goal-setting theory emphasizes that it is the goal itself that motivates a person to exert effort, not just the rewards or outcomes. This theory focuses on setting specific and challenging goals to enhance performance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because Equity theory relates to fairness in social exchanges, Development theory concerns personal growth and advancement, and Extinction refers to the disappearance of a behavior when it is no longer reinforced.

3. Which of the following is an example of a conflict of interest in nursing?

• A. A nurse accepting gifts from a patient
• B. A nurse working for two competing healthcare organizations
• C. A nurse disclosing patient information without consent
• D. A nurse delegating tasks improperly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A nurse working for two competing healthcare organizations represents a conflict of interest as it may affect impartiality. Choice A is incorrect as accepting gifts from a patient may be a violation of ethical standards, but it is not a conflict of interest. Choice C is incorrect as disclosing patient information without consent is a breach of confidentiality, not a conflict of interest. Choice D is incorrect as delegating tasks improperly relates to professional competence, not a conflict of interest.

4. An RN knows that sometimes, when working through an ethical dilemma, the decision makers are unable to arrive at a mutually agreed upon decision. Which of the following is a reason why an agreement cannot be reached?

• A. One or more of the parties may be able to reconcile their values.
• B. The patient�s point of view is recognized as valuable.
• C. The dilemma involves two or more equally unpleasant choices.
• D. The institution is unable to honor the patient�s request.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A patient may make a request that is not possible within the institution. When this occurs, a solution may not be possible within the institution and the patient may need to be transferred to a different institution that may be able to honor the request.

5. Which of the following are considered part of the operating expenses within health care organizations? (EXCEPT)

• A. Maintenance costs
• B. Rental fees
• C. Renovation costs
• D. Supplies

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Operating expenses in health care organizations typically include costs like maintenance, rental fees, and supplies as they are necessary for the day-to-day operations. Renovation costs, on the other hand, are considered capital expenses as they involve significant improvements to facilities rather than routine operational expenses. Therefore, the correct answer is C. Choices A, B, and D are part of operating expenses in health care organizations because they directly contribute to the ongoing operational needs.

Similar Questions