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. 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.

3. Who is credited with creating a written record of health care practices and dispelling the mythical aspect of health care?

• A. Hammurabi
• B. Florence Nightingale
• C. Hippocrates
• D. Apollo

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Hippocrates is credited with creating the first medical textbook, where he documented contemporary health care practices and separated them from the mythical belief that Apollo was responsible for health. Hippocrates' work laid the foundation for evidence-based medicine and emphasized the importance of observation and clinical experience in healthcare practices. Choice A, Hammurabi, is known for his code of laws rather than medical advancements. Florence Nightingale is recognized for her contributions to nursing and healthcare reform, not for creating a written record of health care practices. Apollo, a Greek god associated with healing, is part of the mythical aspect of health care that Hippocrates aimed to dispel.

4. How do accrediting agencies such as the Joint Commission ensure quality care?

• A. Imposing maximum staffing levels
• B. Stipulating nurse-patient ratios
• C. Confirming delivery of satisfactory care
• D. Requiring a specific staff mix

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Accrediting agencies such as the Joint Commission primarily focus on confirming the delivery of satisfactory care rather than imposing specific staffing levels, nurse-patient ratios, or staff mix. They do not dictate the exact staffing levels or ratios but rather evaluate if the care provided meets established quality standards. While adequate staffing levels and appropriate nurse-patient ratios are essential for quality care, accrediting agencies like the Joint Commission assess the outcomes and overall quality of care delivered by healthcare facilities.

5. When considering factors like high risk for falls, infection protocols, and special communication needs to determine the mix and number of staff needed on a telemetry unit, what is being utilized?

• A. diagnostic related groups
• B. clinical pathways
• C. case management
• D. Patient classification system

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse is using a Patient Classification System, which helps in determining the appropriate staffing levels based on the acuity and care requirements of the patients in the telemetry unit. By considering factors like high risk for falls, infection protocols, and special communication needs, the nurse can allocate the right mix and number of staff to provide safe and effective care. The other choices are incorrect because diagnostic related groups are used for billing purposes, clinical pathways are standard care plans for specific diagnoses, and case management involves coordinating care and services for patients.

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