Nursing Elites

1. A 48-year-old male patient screened for diabetes at a clinic has a fasting plasma glucose level of 120 mg/dL (6.7 mmol/L). The nurse will plan to teach the patient about

• A. self-monitoring of blood glucose
• B. using low doses of regular insulin
• C. lifestyle changes to lower blood glucose
• D. effects of oral hypoglycemic medications

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient has a fasting plasma glucose level of 120 mg/dL (6.7 mmol/L), indicating prediabetes, the initial approach is focused on lifestyle modifications to lower blood glucose levels. These changes may include dietary adjustments, increased physical activity, and weight management. Self-monitoring of blood glucose, insulin therapy, and oral hypoglycemic medications are not typically the first-line interventions for patients with prediabetes. Educating the patient about lifestyle changes to lower blood glucose is the most appropriate action at this stage.

2. What is the primary focus of a performance appraisal for nursing staff?

• A. To identify areas for salary increases
• B. To evaluate overall job performance
• C. To provide feedback on clinical skills
• D. To determine eligibility for promotions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary focus of a performance appraisal for nursing staff is to provide feedback on clinical skills, identify areas for improvement, and support professional development. While salary increases, overall job performance evaluation, and promotions may be factors considered during a performance appraisal, the primary goal is to assess and enhance clinical skills to ensure high-quality patient care.

3. Which of the following is a common characteristic of a high-performing healthcare team?

• A. Effective communication
• B. Shared leadership
• C. Collaborative decision making
• D. Hierarchical structure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Collaborative decision making is a key characteristic of a high-performing healthcare team because it involves team members working together to make decisions that lead to the best outcomes for patients. Effective communication is important in any team, but collaborative decision making goes beyond communication by involving team members in the decision-making process. Shared leadership is also crucial for a high-performing team, as it promotes equality and empowerment among team members. On the other hand, a hierarchical structure can hinder effective communication and teamwork by creating barriers between team members and limiting input from all team members, which is counterproductive to achieving optimal healthcare outcomes.

4. When communicating with a client who has a complaint, what principle is important to keep in mind?

• A. Supervisors should always be involved.
• B. The client's physician is often the cause of the problem.
• C. Avoid discussion of complaints.
• D. Clients and families should be treated with respect; communication should be open and honest.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When addressing complaints from clients, it is crucial to prioritize treating clients and families with respect. Open and honest communication fosters trust and transparency in resolving issues effectively. This client-centered approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining positive relationships within the healthcare setting. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Involving supervisors in every communication with a client who has a complaint may not always be necessary or practical. Blaming the client's physician for the issue is unprofessional and does not address the client's concerns. Avoiding discussion of complaints can lead to unresolved issues and dissatisfaction among clients.

5. When addressing a policy violation, what is one of the initial steps to take?

• A. Terminate the employee.
• B. Confront the employee.
• C. Discipline the employee immediately.
• D. Determine whether the employee is aware of the policy.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When addressing a policy violation, one of the initial steps should be to determine whether the employee is aware of the policy. This step allows for clarification, feedback, and potential training if needed. Terminating the employee (Choice A) or disciplining immediately (Choice C) without assessing awareness can lead to unfair treatment and legal issues. Confronting the employee (Choice B) may be necessary but should come after establishing awareness and providing necessary support or education.

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