Nursing Elites

1. A patient with type 2 diabetes is scheduled for a follow-up visit in the clinic several months from now. Which test will the nurse schedule to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for the patient?

• A. Urine dipstick for glucose
• B. Oral glucose tolerance test
• C. Fasting blood glucose level
• D. Glycosylated hemoglobin level

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Glycosylated hemoglobin level. Glycosylated hemoglobin, also known as hemoglobin A1c, provides a long-term indicator of blood glucose control over the past 2-3 months. It is a valuable tool in assessing the effectiveness of diabetes treatment because it reflects average blood sugar levels during this period. Choices A, B, and C are not as effective for evaluating long-term glucose control. Urine dipstick for glucose only provides a snapshot of glucose levels at the time of testing, oral glucose tolerance test evaluates how the body processes glucose after drinking a sugary solution, and fasting blood glucose level gives a point-in-time measurement of glucose levels after fasting, but they do not reflect the overall glucose control over several months.

2. Which of the following is a common characteristic of a high reliability organization (HRO)?

• A. Flexibility
• B. Reluctance to simplify
• C. Preoccupation with failure
• D. Deference to expertise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A common characteristic of a high reliability organization (HRO) is a preoccupation with failure. HROs focus on identifying and addressing potential failure points to prevent errors and maintain high levels of safety and reliability. This mindset helps them anticipate and mitigate risks proactively, leading to better outcomes and performance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While flexibility, reluctance to simplify, and deference to expertise may be important in various contexts, they are not the primary defining characteristics of a high reliability organization. The core focus of HROs is on continuously monitoring for potential failures and working to prevent them.

3. Which of the following best describes the concept of evidence-based practice (EBP)?

• A. Clinical expertise as the primary basis for decision making
• B. Research findings as the sole basis for decision making
• C. Combining clinical expertise with the best available research evidence
• D. Following institutional guidelines for patient care

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Combining clinical expertise with the best available research evidence.' Evidence-based practice (EBP) emphasizes integrating clinical expertise with the most current and relevant research evidence when making decisions about patient care. Choice A is incorrect because EBP does not rely solely on clinical expertise. Choice B is incorrect as EBP considers research evidence alongside clinical expertise, not as the sole basis. Choice D is incorrect because EBP is not about blindly following institutional guidelines, but rather about integrating research evidence with clinical judgment to provide the best possible care.

4. A new nurse is thinking about the ways she can demonstrate leadership in her position. Which of the following is true about leadership?

• A. Leadership is a component of nursing practice.
• B. Leadership requires a position of oversight.
• C. Leadership depends on the actions of others.
• D. Only experienced nurses can demonstrate leadership.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Leadership is a component of nursing practice.' Leadership is an essential aspect of nursing practice that involves inspiring, guiding, and influencing others to achieve common goals. Choice B is incorrect because leadership can be demonstrated at various levels within an organization, not just positions of oversight. Choice C is incorrect as leadership involves taking initiative and guiding others, rather than depending solely on the actions of others. Choice D is incorrect as leadership qualities can be demonstrated by individuals at all levels of experience, not exclusively by experienced nurses.

5. A client experiences difficulty breathing after the change of shift. The nurse on duty discovers that the IVFs were infusing at a rate 10 times the calculated normal. After notifying the physician and correcting the rate, what should be the next step in the client's care?

• A. Notify family
• B. Discipline the previous nurse
• C. Complete an incident report
• D. Obtain legal consultation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct next step in the client's care after notifying the physician and correcting the rate of IVFs is to complete an incident report. This report is essential for documenting the adverse event, analyzing the cause, and implementing preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. Notifying the family, disciplining the previous nurse, and obtaining legal consultation are not immediate priorities in this situation. Family notification may follow the incident report, disciplining the previous nurse is a separate administrative process, and legal consultation is usually not required for a medical error corrected promptly.

Similar Questions