Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the nurse manager's salary is typically considered a fixed cost, not a variable cost. Fixed costs remain constant regardless of the level of production or activity, while variable costs change in direct proportion to the level of activity. The nurse manager's salary is a fixed cost because it remains the same regardless of how many nurses are employed or how many patients are being cared for. A: Fixed costs such as accreditation fees are correct examples. B: Fixed costs like the cost for the automated medication-dispensing system are also correct examples. D: Variable costs like the salary expense for registered nurses are correct examples. Therefore, choice C would indicate a need for further teaching as it misidentifies the nurse manager's salary as a variable cost when it should be classified as a fixed cost.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice A is correct: 1. Cost-benefit ratio involves weighing the benefits of saying yes against the costs of the time commitment. 2. Professional nurses must consider the impact on patient care, workload, and personal well-being. 3. By evaluating the cost-benefit ratio, nurses can make informed decisions aligned with professional responsibilities and ethical standards. Summary: Choice A is correct because it emphasizes a systematic approach to decision-making based on evaluating the overall impact of the time commitment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not address the essential consideration of weighing costs and benefits in decision-making.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This accreditation ensures the nursing program meets national standards for quality and effectiveness. CCNE evaluates curriculum, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, and more. The American Nurses Association (A) is a professional organization, not an accrediting body. The National Institutes of Health (C) focuses on biomedical research, not nursing education accreditation. The National Nursing Council (D) is a fictitious organization and does not accredit nursing programs. In summary, choosing an accredited program by CCNE ensures the nursing student receives a quality education that meets national standards.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The Karnofsky Prognostication Scale is commonly used in patients with terminal illness, such as AIDS, to assess their functional status and predict their prognosis. Patients with AIDS often experience rapid decline in health, making this scale useful in determining their overall well-being and potential outcomes. Incorrect choices: A: Respiratory diseases - The Karnofsky scale is not commonly used for screening patients with respiratory diseases. B: Cancers - While the Karnofsky scale can be used for cancer patients, it is most commonly associated with terminal illnesses like AIDS. C: Cardiac diseases - The Karnofsky scale is not typically used for screening patients with cardiac diseases.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it demonstrates respect for the experienced staff member's expertise by asking for their input and suggestions. This approach fosters open communication, encourages collaboration, and shows a willingness to learn from others. Choice A lacks clarity and assumes the staff member knows the patients in question. Choice C is presumptuous and dismissive of the staff member's autonomy. Choice D is authoritarian and does not promote a positive working relationship. Ultimately, choice B promotes teamwork and mutual respect, leading to a smoother delegation process.