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. 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. Why is it important for healthcare professionals to have an understanding of healthcare issues in the United States?

• A. To ensure proper documentation of patient insurance information.
• B. Reimbursement policies often dictate the services that can be offered to the public.
• C. The quality of care provided is influenced by the patient's insurance coverage.
• D. Proficiency in healthcare issues is essential for graduating as a practical nurse.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Understanding healthcare issues in the United States is crucial for healthcare professionals because reimbursement policies play a significant role in determining the services that can be provided to patients. By comprehending these issues, healthcare professionals can navigate the complexities of healthcare delivery, ensure appropriate services are offered, and optimize patient care outcomes. Choice A is incorrect because understanding healthcare issues goes beyond just documentation of patient insurance information. Choice C is incorrect as the quality of care should not be solely dependent on a patient's insurance coverage. Choice D is incorrect because while proficiency in healthcare issues is important for practical nurses, it is not a requirement solely for graduating.

4. 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.

5. On what are most nursing paradigms based?

• A. The nurse's ability to perform procedures with skill
• B. Dr. Jean Watson's transpersonal caring theory
• C. Maslow's theory of hierarchy of needs
• D. Learning by studying nursing theories and clinical experiences

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Most nursing paradigms are founded on the understanding and application of nursing theories through studying them and gaining practical experiences in clinical settings. While the nurse's ability to perform procedures with skill is important, it is not the foundation of nursing paradigms. Dr. Jean Watson's transpersonal caring theory and Maslow's theory of hierarchy of needs are significant in nursing practice but do not serve as the basis for most nursing paradigms. Nursing paradigms are shaped by a combination of studying nursing theories and hands-on clinical experiences, which provide the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed for nursing practice.

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