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. What motivates a nurse to perform tasks, whether at work or off duty?

• A. Personal motivation
• B. Facility policies
• C. Fear of reprisals
• D. Parental expectations

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Personal motivation is the driving force behind a nurse's actions, influencing their decisions and behaviors both during work hours and while off duty. It is an internal drive that compels them to act in a certain way, regardless of external factors such as facility policies, fear of reprisals, or parental expectations. While facility policies may guide their actions within the workplace, they do not address motivation. Fear of reprisals and parental expectations are external factors and are less likely to be the primary motivators for a nurse's actions.

3. When caring for a patient who just received a terminal diagnosis and is tearful and frightened, what is the best action to demonstrate caring?

• A. Call the patient's spiritual leader to talk to the patient.
• B. Call the patient's family and ask them to come sit with the patient.
• C. Cry with the patient while sympathizing with their situation.
• D. Sit with the patient and listen to their fears.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In situations where a patient receives a terminal diagnosis and is emotionally distressed, it is essential to provide empathy and support. Sitting with the patient and actively listening to their fears allows the patient to express their emotions and concerns. This action demonstrates genuine care and compassion, showing the patient that their feelings are acknowledged and valued. It creates a therapeutic environment that fosters trust and emotional well-being, helping the patient cope with the distressing news. Calling the patient's spiritual leader (Choice A) may not address the immediate emotional needs of the patient. Calling the patient's family (Choice B) can be comforting but might not directly address the patient's fears. Crying with the patient (Choice C) can blur professional boundaries and may not be as beneficial as actively listening and providing support.

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. What does valuing respect for the individual as defining high-quality patient care describe about the nurse's approach to patient care?

• A. Critical thinking
• B. Caritas
• C. Paradigm
• D. Hierarchy of needs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Valuing respect for the individual as defining high-quality patient care describes the nurse's paradigm, which is the overall way of thinking and approaching patient care that guides their actions and decisions. It reflects their fundamental beliefs and values regarding patient interactions and care delivery. Critical thinking involves analyzing information objectively and evaluating situations to make informed decisions. Caritas refers to acts of loving kindness and compassionate care in nursing practice. The hierarchy of needs is a theory that describes the hierarchical nature of human needs, such as physiological needs, safety needs, and social needs.

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