Nursing Elites

1. A Hispanic patient complains of abdominal cramping caused by empacho. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Ask the patient what treatments are likely to help
• B. Massage the patient's abdomen until the pain subsides.
• C. Administer prescribed medications to decrease the cramping
• D. Offer to contact a curandero(a) for a visit to the patient

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a Hispanic patient presents with abdominal cramping related to empacho, it is crucial for the nurse to first understand the patient's cultural beliefs and preferences before initiating any interventions. In the case of a culture-bound syndrome like empacho, it is essential to acknowledge and respect the patient's cultural background. While options like administering medications, arranging a visit by a curandero(a), or providing massage may have potential benefits, assessing the patient's beliefs ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive and aligned with the patient's values. By engaging the patient in a discussion about potential treatments, the nurse can gather valuable information to tailor care effectively, promoting trust and collaboration in the healthcare process. This patient-centered approach enhances the quality of care and fosters a culturally competent nursing practice. Therefore, asking the patient about preferred treatments is the most appropriate initial action to address the patient's condition effectively.

2. The primary health care provider tells a mother that her newborn has multiple visible birth defects. The mother seems composed and asks to see her baby. Which nursing action will be most helpful in easing the mother's stress when she sees her child for the first time?

• A. Bringing the infant as requested before she changes her mind
• B. Describing how the infant looks before bringing the infant to her
• C. Staying with her after bringing the infant to help her verbalize her feelings
• D. Showing the mother pictures of the birth defects, then bringing the infant to her

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Allowing the mother time to verbalize her feelings and providing support when she sees her newborn with birth defects for the first time is crucial. Staying with her allows for immediate emotional support, acceptance, and understanding, which can help ease her stress. Bringing the infant as requested without proper emotional support may overwhelm the mother. Describing the infant's appearance before she sees the baby might not be accurate and could add to her distress. Showing pictures of the birth defects before the mother sees her baby may not be helpful and could increase her anxiety. Engaging in discussions about treatment at this point may be premature and overwhelming for the mother.

3. A 16-month-old child has just been admitted to the hospital. As the nurse assigned to this child enters the hospital room for the first time, the toddler runs to the mother, clings to her, and begins to cry. What would be the initial action by the nurse?

• A. Arrange to change client care assignments.
• B. Explain that this behavior is expected.
• C. Discuss the appropriate use of 'time-out'.
• D. Explain that the child needs extra attention.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to explain that this behavior is expected. During normal development, fear of strangers becomes prominent beginning around age 6-8 months. Such behaviors include clinging to parents, crying, and turning away from the stranger. These fears and behaviors extend into the toddler period and may persist into preschool. Changing client care assignments (Choice A) is not necessary as the child's behavior is developmentally appropriate. Discussing the appropriate use of 'time-out' (Choice C) is not relevant in this situation as the child is displaying normal attachment behavior, not misbehavior. Explaining that the child needs extra attention (Choice D) may not be necessary as the child is likely seeking comfort from the familiar presence of the mother, which is a typical response in a stressful situation like being in a hospital environment.

4. Which component of cultural competence is being demonstrated when the nurse motivates the immigrant to accept differences in the way a pregnant woman is cared for in her current residence?

• A. Cultural desire
• B. Cultural awareness
• C. Cultural knowledge
• D. Cultural encounters

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Cultural desire.' Cultural desire involves the nurse's motivation and commitment toward caring for individuals from diverse backgrounds. In this scenario, motivating the immigrant to accept differences in prenatal care reflects the nurse's genuine interest in providing culturally competent care. Cultural awareness involves self-examination of one's beliefs and biases. Cultural knowledge refers to understanding various cultural practices and beliefs. Cultural encounters focus on interactions across cultures to enhance communication and mutual understanding. Therefore, in this context, the nurse's actions align more closely with the concept of cultural desire.

5. After giving birth to her third child, a client tearfully says to the nurse, 'How much more can I give of myself?' Which principle would the nurse consider in the care of any new mother?

• A. It is easier to adjust to the first child than to later ones.
• B. Feeling anger and resentment toward a child is pathological.
• C. Some parents experience feelings of being overwhelmed by multiple children.
• D. Parents usually have inborn feelings of love and acceptance of their children.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A parent's feeling of being overwhelmed by multiple children is a normal response. It is vital to help parents realize this as a means of easing feelings of guilt and shame. The first child causes the greatest amount of adjustment in one's life. It is common for parents to feel anger and resentment toward their children at times due to the challenges of parenting. Stating that parents usually have inborn feelings of love and acceptance of their children is a false generalization and may not hold true for everyone. Therefore, the most appropriate principle for the nurse to consider in this situation is that some parents may experience feelings of being overwhelmed by multiple children.

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