Nursing Elites

1. Healthcare systems primarily have functional structures. Which of the following would be an example of this?

• A. Open communication exists between Physical Therapy and Nursing.
• B. Medicine has authority over nursing.
• C. Laboratory services have little authority.
• D. All nursing tasks fall under nursing service.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. In functional structures, employees are grouped in departments by specialty, with similar tasks being performed by the same group. This means that in a healthcare system with a functional structure, all nursing tasks would fall under the nursing service. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because open communication between departments, one department having authority over another, or the level of authority of a particular department do not necessarily represent a functional structure.

2. 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.

3. An unresponsive patient with type 2 diabetes is brought to the emergency department and diagnosed with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS). The nurse will anticipate the need to

• A. give a bolus of 50% dextrose.
• B. insert a large-bore IV catheter.
• C. initiate oxygen via nasal cannula.
• D. administer glargine (Lantus) insulin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a patient with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS), severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances are common. To address these issues, the priority intervention is to insert a large-bore IV catheter for fluid resuscitation and electrolyte replacement. Giving a bolus of 50% dextrose would worsen the hyperglycemia. Initiating oxygen via nasal cannula may be beneficial for respiratory support but is not the priority in this scenario. Administering glargine (Lantus) insulin is not the initial treatment for HHS as it does not address the underlying severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

4. Which of the following best describes the concept of interprofessional collaboration in healthcare?

• A. The process by which multiple healthcare professionals work together to improve patient outcomes
• B. A method for healthcare professionals to work independently within their scope of practice
• C. The use of standardized protocols to ensure consistent care
• D. A way for healthcare professionals to share patient information electronically

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Interprofessional collaboration in healthcare refers to the coordinated efforts of multiple healthcare professionals working together to enhance patient outcomes. This collaborative approach involves professionals from different disciplines contributing their expertise to provide comprehensive care and improve the overall quality of patient treatment. Choice B is incorrect because interprofessional collaboration emphasizes teamwork and collective efforts rather than working independently. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to standardization of care protocols, not collaboration among professionals. Choice D is incorrect as sharing patient information electronically is a component of information exchange but not the primary focus of interprofessional collaboration.

5. How has advanced technology in health care, such as integrated health records, benefited nurses?

• A. Skip the assessment step of the nursing process
• B. Order medications
• C. Take blood samples
• D. Track patients' vital signs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Advanced technology in health care, like integrated health records, has enabled nurses to efficiently track patients' vital signs. This capability helps nurses monitor patients' health status closely and make informed decisions regarding their care. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because technology does not replace the vital role of nurses in conducting assessments, ordering medications (typically done by prescribers), or collecting blood samples.

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