Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is an example of a sentinel event in healthcare?

• A. A patient falling in the hospital without injury
• B. A near-miss medication error
• C. An unexpected patient death unrelated to the natural course of illness
• D. A patient developing an infection during a hospital stay

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A sentinel event in healthcare is an unexpected patient death unrelated to the natural course of illness. These events are serious occurrences that warrant immediate investigation and response to prevent their recurrence and ensure patient safety. Choices A, B, and D do not fit the definition of a sentinel event. While choices A, B, and D are serious incidents, they do not involve an unexpected patient death unrelated to the natural course of illness, which is the defining characteristic of a sentinel event.

2. In our culturally diverse society, barriers to health care result from:

• A. Prejudice
• B. Different socioeconomic status
• C. Differences in language
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a culturally diverse society, barriers to health care can stem from various factors. These include differences in language, various socioeconomic statuses, and prejudices. These factors can create obstacles for individuals in accessing healthcare services. Therefore, the correct answer is 'All of the above' as all the provided choices contribute to barriers in healthcare access. Choice A, 'Prejudice,' is correct as biases and discrimination can prevent individuals from receiving proper care. Choice B, 'Different socioeconomic status,' is accurate as financial disparities can limit access to healthcare services. Choice C, 'Differences in language,' is also valid as language barriers can hinder effective communication and understanding between patients and healthcare providers.

3. A nurse manager has two out of six staff nurses call in sick for one shift. Because of reduced availability of staff, the manager decides to manage the unit with the three remaining nurses, which keeps the unit at minimal staffing standards. What type of decision-making strategy would this be?

• A. Satisficing
• B. Routine
• C. Adaptive
• D. Rationalizing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Satisficing. Satisficing is a decision-making strategy where the person chooses an alternative that is good enough given the circumstances. In this scenario, the nurse manager is making a satisfactory decision by managing the unit with the three remaining nurses to meet minimal staffing standards despite the reduced availability of staff. Choice B, Routine, does not apply as the decision made in the scenario is not part of a regular or standard procedure. Choice C, Adaptive, is not the best fit as the decision is more about making do with the available resources rather than adapting to a new situation. Choice D, Rationalizing, does not align with the scenario as it refers to justifying decisions rather than making a practical choice under constraints.

4. After examining her client's abdomen and noting assessment of significant findings, even though the client says it doesn't hurt, the nurse says to a colleague, 'I think something is going on here; I am going to investigate further.' This nurse is using:

• A. Deductive reasoning.
• B. Intuition.
• C. Trial and error.
• D. Modified scientific method.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Intuition. In this scenario, the nurse is relying on intuition, which refers to a 'gut feeling' or instinctive understanding without the conscious use of reasoning. Deductive reasoning (choice A) involves drawing specific conclusions from general principles. Trial and error (choice C) is a problem-solving method that involves trying various methods until the correct one is found. The modified scientific method (choice D) refers to a structured approach to conducting experiments in a scientific setting, which is not applicable in this situation where the nurse is relying on a hunch or intuition.

5. When communicating with a client who has a complaint, what principle is important to keep in mind?

• A. Supervisors should always be involved.
• B. The client's physician is often the cause of the problem.
• C. Avoid discussion of complaints.
• D. Clients and families should be treated with respect; communication should be open and honest.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When addressing complaints from clients, it is crucial to prioritize treating clients and families with respect. Open and honest communication fosters trust and transparency in resolving issues effectively. This client-centered approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining positive relationships within the healthcare setting. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Involving supervisors in every communication with a client who has a complaint may not always be necessary or practical. Blaming the client's physician for the issue is unprofessional and does not address the client's concerns. Avoiding discussion of complaints can lead to unresolved issues and dissatisfaction among clients.

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