Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following theories best describes current health care delivery systems?

• A. Open system theory
• B. Closed system theory
• C. Chaos theory
• D. Contingency theory

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The contingency theory best describes the current health care delivery systems. Contingency theory emphasizes that there is no one best way to organize or manage, and the effectiveness of an organization is contingent upon internal and external factors. In healthcare, the delivery systems must often adapt and be flexible in response to various factors like patient needs, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. Open system theory focuses on the interaction between a system and its environment, but it does not capture the dynamic and adaptive nature of current healthcare systems. Closed system theory suggests systems are self-contained and do not interact with the environment, which is not accurate for healthcare systems that constantly interact with patients, providers, and external factors. Chaos theory deals with complex systems and unpredictability, which while relevant to some aspects of healthcare, does not provide a comprehensive framework for understanding healthcare delivery systems.

2. When a patient who takes metformin (Glucophage) to manage type 2 diabetes develops an allergic rash from an unknown cause, the healthcare provider prescribes prednisone (Deltasone). The nurse will anticipate that the patient may

• A. require administration of insulin while taking prednisone
• B. develop acute hypoglycemia while taking prednisone
• C. require administration of insulin while taking prednisone
• D. have rashes caused by metformin-prednisone interactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a patient taking metformin develops an allergic rash from an unknown cause and is prescribed prednisone, the nurse should anticipate that the patient may require administration of insulin while taking prednisone. Prednisone can increase blood glucose levels by antagonizing the effects of insulin, leading to hyperglycemia. Therefore, the patient may need additional insulin to manage blood sugar levels effectively. The other options are incorrect as prednisone would not directly cause a need for a higher-calorie diet, acute hypoglycemia, or rashes caused by a metformin-prednisone interaction.

3. Which of the following best describes the concept of patient autonomy?

• A. The right of patients to make their own healthcare decisions
• B. The duty to do no harm
• C. The obligation to tell the truth
• D. The responsibility to provide equitable care

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patient autonomy refers to the right of patients to make their own healthcare decisions based on their values and preferences. It emphasizes the importance of respecting patients' rights to choose their treatment options, even if their decisions may not align with healthcare providers' recommendations. Choice B, the duty to do no harm, refers to the ethical principle of nonmaleficence, which is separate from patient autonomy. Choice C, the obligation to tell the truth, is related to the principle of veracity and does not directly encompass patient autonomy. Choice D, the responsibility to provide equitable care, pertains to the concept of justice in healthcare and is not synonymous with patient autonomy.

4. The changes brought forth by the state boards of nursing are an example of which type of change agent?

• A. Resistance
• B. Empirical–rational
• C. Normative–reeducative
• D. Power–coercive

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The changes implemented by state boards of nursing typically fall under the category of Power–coercive change agents. State boards of nursing have the authority to enforce changes through regulations and policies, making use of their legitimate power. Resistance (choice A) is not the correct answer as it refers to opposition to change rather than the entity driving change. Empirical–rational (choice B) focuses on convincing individuals through empirical evidence and rational arguments, which is not reflective of the state boards' authority. Normative–reeducative (choice C) involves persuading individuals to change based on shared values and beliefs, which is not the primary approach of state boards of nursing.

5. After working at your job for 10 months and feeling unable to tolerate the tension and stress between staff nurses and the laissez-faire nurse manager who is not a leader, what is the best course of action?

• A. Submit a resignation and leave within 30 days.
• B. Complain to staff about the nurse manager.
• C. Seek another position within the healthcare organization and apply for a transfer.
• D. Inform the chief nursing officer that you are leaving and explain your dissatisfaction with the lack of leadership.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this situation, it is best to seek another position within the healthcare organization and apply for a transfer. Making professional decisions should involve careful evaluation and consideration. It is important to align personal values with the organizational culture. By seeking advice from a mentor or counselor, you can gain valuable insights and consider different perspectives. Resigning abruptly, complaining to staff, or informing the chief nursing officer without exploring other options may not be the most effective or professional approach in this scenario.

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