Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. How can a student best prepare for a clinical experience?

• A. Practice and review procedures for performing skills
• B. Review class notes from the past week
• C. Familiarize oneself with the clinical facility
• D. Arrive at the clinical site 1 hour early

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Practicing and reviewing procedures for performing skills is crucial for a student preparing for a clinical experience. This preparation allows the student to build competence and confidence in executing required tasks. Reviewing class notes may be helpful for theoretical knowledge but may not adequately prepare the student for practical skills needed in a clinical setting. Familiarizing oneself with the clinical facility is beneficial but does not directly address skill readiness. Arriving early is important but does not substitute for the essential preparation of practicing and reviewing procedures for performing skills.

3. Which statement about the U.S. healthcare system made by the nurse is untrue and inaccurate?

• A. There is no central agency governing the healthcare system.
• B. Access to healthcare is available to all persons regardless of ability to pay.
• C. Legal risk must be considered when providing healthcare.
• D. High-tech equipment is available but payment for its use is troublesome to the system.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Access to healthcare is not universally available to all persons in the U.S.; it is often influenced by the ability to pay. Choice A is accurate as there is no single central agency governing the entire U.S. healthcare system. Choice C is a valid consideration as legal risks are important in healthcare provision. Choice D highlights a common issue in the U.S. healthcare system where high-tech equipment is available, but the payment for its use can be problematic.

4. How can the nurse best advocate for a patient who will be discharged from acute care to home?

• A. Arranging for Meals on Wheels to provide in-home meals
• B. Administering pain medication prior to discharge
• C. Teaching the patient how to take medications at home
• D. Taking the patient by wheelchair to the car

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Arranging for in-home support services like Meals on Wheels is crucial for ensuring the patient receives proper nutrition and support after discharge. This goes beyond simply administering medications or providing transportation. By arranging for in-home meals, the nurse addresses the patient's nutritional needs, promotes their overall well-being, and supports their ongoing care requirements. Administering pain medication or teaching medication management, while important, do not directly address the patient's need for nutritional support. Taking the patient by wheelchair to the car is focused on physical transportation and does not encompass the holistic care approach needed for a successful transition to home care.

5. What is essential for student nurses to perform at their physical and emotional best?

• A. Engaging in adequate exercise.
• B. Eating plenty of carbohydrates the day before.
• C. Drinking caffeinated beverages before clinical.
• D. Studying late into the night to be prepared.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To perform at their physical and emotional best, it is essential for student nurses to engage in adequate exercise. Regular physical activity not only helps maintain physical health but also contributes to emotional well-being, which is crucial for optimal clinical performance. Exercise can help reduce stress, improve mood, increase energy levels, and enhance overall cognitive function, all of which are essential for students to perform effectively in clinical settings. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Eating plenty of carbohydrates the day before, drinking caffeinated beverages before clinical, and studying late into the night may not necessarily lead to optimal physical and emotional performance. While nutrition is important, a balanced diet is more effective than simply focusing on carbohydrates. Caffeinated beverages can lead to dehydration and interfere with sleep patterns, and studying late into the night can impair cognitive function and increase stress levels, which are counterproductive to performing at one's best.

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