Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because in the shock phase, nurses should focus on self-reflection and personal growth to cope effectively with the challenges. Asking what changes they can make to feel good about their career choice promotes self-awareness and resilience. Choices A and D focus on external factors, which may not address personal development. Choice B reflects a self-critical mindset, which can be detrimental to emotional well-being during the shock phase.

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: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it encourages the patient to provide detailed information and express themselves freely. By asking the patient to "Tell me what day of the week today is," the nurse is prompting an open-ended response, allowing the patient to share their understanding. Choice A is closed-ended, requiring a simple yes/no answer. Choice B is slightly better as it prompts for information, but it is still closed-ended. Choice D is irrelevant to the question of determining cognitive function and history. In summary, C promotes open communication by encouraging the patient to elaborate, while the other choices limit the patient's response.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Individual state boards of nursing. State boards of nursing are responsible for regulating nursing practice within their respective states, including establishing rules and regulations to ensure safe and competent care. They set standards for licensure, education, and practice, as well as enforce disciplinary actions when necessary. State boards have the authority to govern nursing practice based on state laws and regulations. Employers, the US Department of Health and Human Services, and local health officials do not have the regulatory power to establish the rules for nursing practice at a state level.