a few weeks after an 82 year old with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes has been placed on metformin glucophage therapy and taught about appropriate

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

1. A few weeks after an 82-year-old with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes has been placed on metformin (Glucophage) therapy and taught about appropriate diet and exercise, the home health nurse makes a visit. Which finding by the nurse is most important to discuss with the healthcare provider?

A. Hemoglobin A1C level is 7.9%.
B. Last eye exam was 18 months ago.
C. Glomerular filtration rate is decreased.
D. Patient has questions about the prescribed diet.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important finding to discuss with the healthcare provider is the decreased glomerular filtration rate. In patients on metformin therapy, monitoring kidney function is crucial as metformin is primarily excreted through the kidneys. A decreased glomerular filtration rate can lead to metformin accumulation in the body, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious adverse effect. The hemoglobin A1C level being 7.9% indicates poor diabetes control but can be addressed through medication adjustments and lifestyle modifications. The patient needing an eye exam after 18 months is important but not as urgent as discussing the decreased glomerular filtration rate. Patient questions about the prescribed diet can be addressed during the visit without the need for immediate healthcare provider intervention.

2. Although technology has seen many advances, which two ethical principles may be in conflict because of technology?

A. Beneficence and justice
B. Beneficence and nonmaleficence
C. Beneficence and veracity
D. Beneficence and confidentiality

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Beneficence and nonmaleficence. Beneficence refers to the obligation to do good and act in the best interest of the patient, while nonmaleficence means to 'do no harm.' With advances in technology, there can be situations where the pursuit of benefit (beneficence) may inadvertently cause harm (nonmaleficence), leading to a conflict between these two ethical principles. Choice A, beneficence and justice, is incorrect because justice pertains to fairness and equality in the distribution of resources and treatments, not conflicting directly with beneficence. Choice C, beneficence and veracity, involves the obligation to tell the truth and is not in direct conflict with beneficence. Choice D, beneficence and confidentiality, relate to maintaining privacy and trust, which can complement rather than conflict with beneficence in most cases.

3. Which of the following is an example of a sentinel event in healthcare?

A. A patient falling in the hospital without injury
B. A near-miss medication error
C. An unexpected patient death unrelated to the natural course of illness
D. A patient developing an infection during a hospital stay

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A sentinel event in healthcare is an unexpected patient death unrelated to the natural course of illness. These events are serious occurrences that warrant immediate investigation and response to prevent their recurrence and ensure patient safety. Choices A, B, and D do not fit the definition of a sentinel event. While choices A, B, and D are serious incidents, they do not involve an unexpected patient death unrelated to the natural course of illness, which is the defining characteristic of a sentinel event.

4. Which of the following is an example of an outcome measure in healthcare?

A. Patient satisfaction scores
B. Length of hospital stay
C. Healthcare provider performance reviews
D. Number of diagnostic tests ordered

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patient satisfaction scores are considered an outcome measure in healthcare because they reflect the patient's experience and perception of the care received. Patient satisfaction scores focus on the quality of care provided and the patient's overall satisfaction with their healthcare experience. Choices B, C, and D are not examples of outcome measures. The length of hospital stay is a process measure, healthcare provider performance reviews are a provider-specific evaluation, and the number of diagnostic tests ordered is more related to resource utilization rather than a direct patient outcome.

5. Which of the following is a recommendation for avoiding charges of negligence and false imprisonment for confused clients?

A. Carefully assess and document client status.
B. Ensure all patient information is secure and the nurse has logged out of the computer before leaving the computer station.
C. Keep detailed notes while providing care to ensure accurate documentation later in the day.
D. Discuss safety needs with clients.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Carefully assess and document client status.' When dealing with confused clients, it is crucial to assess their status carefully and document it accurately. This helps in avoiding charges of negligence and false imprisonment by ensuring that the client's condition is well-documented and appropriate care is provided. Choice B is incorrect because it focuses on computer security rather than client care. Choice C is incorrect because it emphasizes detailed notes for accuracy but does not specifically address the confusion of clients. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions discussing safety needs but does not directly relate to avoiding charges of negligence and false imprisonment for confused clients.