Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: performance-based assessment. This type of evaluation focuses on assessing students' ability to perform tasks and demonstrate competence in real-world scenarios, such as client care environments or with standardized patients. It is a more practical and hands-on approach compared to traditional pencil-and-paper evaluations. Core practice competencies (A) refer to essential skills and knowledge required for a specific profession. Continuing competence (B) involves ongoing professional development to maintain skills and knowledge. Distance learning (C) is a method of education that does not require physical presence in a traditional classroom setting. Performance-based assessment best aligns with the description provided in the question, making it the correct choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it aligns with the 2012 National Patient Safety Goals, specifically the goal of improving the accuracy of patient identification. By asking the patient to confirm their name, type of surgery, and limb to be removed, the surgical team is ensuring that they have the correct patient and are performing the correct procedure. This protocol helps prevent errors and ensures patient safety. Option B is incorrect because asking for licensure and certification does not directly relate to patient safety or accurate patient identification. Option C is incorrect because relying solely on chart numbers or hospital numbers may not be sufficient to prevent errors in patient identification. Option D is incorrect because while marking the procedure site is important, relying solely on the patient to verify the correct site may not be as effective as having the healthcare team confirm this information with the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because in the ABC system, tasks coded as A are considered the most important and urgent. Calling the pharmacy to check drug availability for a patient directly impacts patient care and safety, making it a priority. B, checking a ventilator alarm, is important but not as urgent as ensuring medication availability. C, organizing the medication cart, is important but not necessarily urgent like patient-related tasks. D, writing memos for a birthday gift, is neither urgent nor directly related to patient care. Therefore, A is the correct choice for being the most critical task in the ABC system.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because reporting unsafe staffing levels to The Joint Commission is an appropriate course of action for addressing concerns about patient safety. The Joint Commission is an independent organization that accredits healthcare facilities and promotes high-quality care standards. Whistleblower protection laws safeguard employees who report violations of laws, regulations, or standards that threaten public health or safety. Reporting to The Joint Commission can lead to an investigation and potential improvement in staffing levels to ensure patient safety. Incorrect answers: B: Keeping copies of documented inappropriate staffing patterns in the nurse's personal file is not illegal, but it may not be the most effective way to address the issue. C: Recording personal thoughts on outcomes is not as effective as taking action to report concerns to the appropriate regulatory body. D: Seeking guidance is important, but in cases of unsafe staffing levels, it is crucial to report the issue to the appropriate regulatory agency for resolution.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Preparedness. In this scenario, nurses and community officials are proactively planning and organizing resources to be ready for a disaster. Preparedness involves activities such as training, drills, and stockpiling supplies to ensure an effective response. Relief response (B) occurs during or immediately after a disaster to provide immediate assistance. Recovery (C) focuses on restoring community infrastructure and services post-disaster. Crisis intervention (D) is a short-term, immediate response to individuals in distress. In this case, the focus is on prevention and readiness, fitting the preparedness phase.