Nursing Elites

1. In an underdeveloped country, the nurse observes the natives lighting ritual fires and pounding on primitive drums around the sick person to promote recovery. The nurse interprets this behavior as indicating the natives believe illness results from which items?

• A. Pathogens and genetics
• B. Evil spirits
• C. Tides and planets
• D. Plants and animals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The behavior of lighting fires and pounding on drums to promote recovery suggests a belief in evil spirits causing illness. In many cultures, rituals like these are performed to ward off evil spirits or negative energies that are thought to be the cause of sickness. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the described behavior aligns more with spiritual or supernatural beliefs rather than scientific explanations related to pathogens, genetics, tides, planets, plants, or animals.

2. While supervising the care of several clients, which action requires intervention by the charge nurse?

• A. A nurse photocopies a client's diagnostic test results.
• B. An assistive personnel documents the client's vital signs on the client's paper-based graphic record.
• C. The unit secretary faxes a client's laboratory results to the provider.
• D. An RN stays with a client to discuss her understanding of her vital signs that were requested.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The charge nurse should intervene when a nurse photocopies a client's diagnostic test results as it violates patient confidentiality and privacy. This action breaches HIPAA regulations, and sensitive patient information should not be photocopied without proper authorization. The other actions are within the scope of practice and do not raise concerns regarding patient privacy or confidentiality.

3. When a nurse reads a peer-reviewed nursing journal article recommending a change in caring for a patient with an indwelling urinary catheter, which action demonstrates critical thinking?

• A. Implementing the article's recommendations in caring for a patient with an indwelling urinary catheter
• B. Presenting the journal article to the nurse manager and proposing a revision of the procedure
• C. Seeking additional peer-reviewed articles that corroborate the author's recommendation
• D. Disregarding the article and adhering to the facility's existing procedure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Critical thinking involves evaluating information from various sources. In this scenario, the nurse displays critical thinking by seeking additional peer-reviewed articles that support the author's recommendation. This action ensures that decisions are based on a comprehensive understanding of the topic rather than relying solely on one source. By exploring other peer-reviewed articles, the nurse can validate the proposed change and make informed decisions regarding patient care. Choice A, implementing the article's recommendations, may not encompass a thorough evaluation of the information presented. Choice B, presenting the article to the nurse manager, is a valid step but does not directly involve critical analysis of the information. Choice D, disregarding the article, goes against the essence of critical thinking, which emphasizes the evaluation and consideration of various perspectives.

4. What is the difference between the LPN and LVN nursing titles?

• A. LPNs and LVNs have the same educational program length.
• B. LVNs and LPNs have the same duties and skills but hold different titles.
• C. LVNs are able to perform venipuncture, whereas LPNs cannot.
• D. LPNs can pursue an RN license, while LVNs are not on the same path.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. LVNs and LPNs have the same duties and skills but hold different titles. The distinction between the two titles is primarily regional, with some states using LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) and others using LVN (Licensed Vocational Nurse) to refer to the same role. Their scope of practice, responsibilities, and educational requirements are essentially equivalent, with the only notable difference being the title itself. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because LPNs and LVNs generally have similar educational program lengths, both can perform venipuncture, and both have the potential to pursue further education and licensure to become registered nurses (RNs) if they choose to do so.

5. While working in the clinical facility, the student nurse learns that a family member has been admitted to the same facility. What statement is true about the student's access to the family member's medical record?

• A. The student may access the family member's medical record as a nurse in the facility.
• B. The student nurse should not access the family member's record until obtaining instructor approval.
• C. The student may access the family member's medical record because of the family relationship.
• D. The student nurse should not view the record unless they are providing care for the family member.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The student nurse should not view the family member's record unless they are directly involved in providing care to maintain confidentiality. Accessing the record without a legitimate reason breaches patient confidentiality and violates ethical principles. Choice A is incorrect because being a nurse in the facility does not automatically grant access to a family member's record. Choice B is incorrect as it does not address the primary concern of direct involvement in care. Choice C is incorrect as family relationship alone does not justify accessing the medical record.

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