Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: the pandemic of H1N1 "swine flu." This is because the H1N1 flu pandemic was a global health concern directly linked to globalization due to the rapid spread of the virus across borders. The emergence of epidemic hepatitis A (choice A) is not directly tied to globalization. The reemergence of polio (choice C) is more associated with gaps in vaccination coverage rather than globalization. An increase in chronic illnesses (choice D) can be influenced by various factors, but it is not specifically a result of globalization in the context of this question.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pareto chart. A Pareto chart is a quality improvement tool used to prioritize and focus efforts on the most significant causes of a problem. In this case, the hospital used the chart to identify the main causes of medication errors, helping them to allocate resources efficiently. The Pareto principle states that roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes, making it a powerful tool for process improvement. A: Run chart is used to track data over time but does not prioritize causes like a Pareto chart. C: Flowcharts are used to map out processes and are helpful for understanding the sequence of activities, not for prioritizing causes. D: Cause-and-effect diagrams (Fishbone or Ishikawa diagram) are used to identify and organize potential causes of a problem but do not prioritize them like a Pareto chart. In summary, the Pareto chart is the most appropriate tool in this situation because it helps focus efforts on the most significant causes

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because before addressing any ethical issue, it is vital to first identify and define the issue clearly. This helps in understanding the context and scope of the problem. Without knowing the specific ethical issue at hand, it is impossible to proceed with identifying alternatives, selecting the best option, or justifying the choice of action. Therefore, asking "What is the issue?" is the initial step in the ethical decision-making process. Summary: - Option B is incorrect because identifying alternatives comes after defining the issue. - Option C is incorrect as selecting the best option should be based on a clear understanding of the issue. - Option D is incorrect as justifying actions or inactions should come after determining the ethical problem.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: infection control. In this scenario, the nurse is focusing on preventing and controlling the spread of hospital-acquired diarrhea among pediatric patients. By investigating the incidence rates and implementing measures to reduce the risk of infection transmission, the nurse is fulfilling the role of infection control. Quality management (A) focuses on improving processes and outcomes, not specifically on infection prevention. Occupational health (C) involves ensuring workplace safety for employees, not patient infection control. Forensics (D) involves investigating and analyzing evidence related to crimes or legal matters, not infection control in a healthcare setting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: length of hospital stay. DRGs aim to reduce healthcare costs by incentivizing hospitals to provide efficient care and discharge patients sooner. Shortening the length of hospital stay helps decrease overall healthcare expenses without compromising the quality of care. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because DRGs focus on the duration of hospitalization, not necessarily on hospital admission rates, outpatient services, or specialty groups. Shortening hospital stays is a more direct way to control costs within the inpatient setting.