Contemporary Issues in Nursing

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Change out of their work attire before running errands. This is because maintaining a professional image involves setting clear boundaries between work and personal life. By changing out of work attire before running errands, the nurse avoids potential misconceptions or misunderstandings from the public. Choice B (Renew membership in a nursing organization) is not directly related to maintaining a professional image, although it is important for professional development. Choice C (Earning an advanced nursing degree) may enhance professional qualifications but does not directly impact the nurse's image. Choice D (Developing effective nurse-physician relationships) is important for teamwork but does not specifically address individual professional image.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Simulation experiences. This intervention allows healthcare professionals to practice real-life scenarios in a controlled environment, improving skills and decision-making. It helps identify and address potential errors before they occur, enhancing patient safety. Other choices lack the hands-on, practical approach of simulations and may not adequately prepare professionals for real-world situations. Simulation experiences are crucial for enhancing clinical competence and reducing medical errors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because permissive licenses in the early 1900s were voluntary but required passing an examination to use the title RN. This ensured a basic level of competency. Choice B is incorrect as there was no specific requirement for the duration of formalized nurse training. Choice C is incorrect as failing the examination would disqualify nurses from practice. Choice D is incorrect as there was typically only one type of licensure examination, not a choice between written or oral.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Application. In this scenario, the nurse needs to apply knowledge of arterial blood gas results and assessment findings to determine appropriate actions. With the patient having abnormal ABG results and visible carotid artery pulsation, the nurse must recognize impending respiratory failure and act promptly, such as notifying the healthcare provider or respiratory therapist. This requires applying critical thinking skills to make decisions based on collected data. Incorrect choices: A: Knowledge - Choosing this option implies only recalling facts, which is not sufficient in this situation. B: Comprehension - This choice suggests understanding the information given, but it does not involve applying that understanding to make decisions. D: Analysis - While analysis involves breaking down information, the immediate action needed in this case is more about applying knowledge to prevent a potential crisis, rather than deeply analyzing the situation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In developing a patient classification system, planned procedures are crucial as they determine resource allocation, staffing needs, and patient acuity. Understanding the procedures aids in categorizing patients accurately based on care requirements. Ethnic diversity, clinical competency, and educational level are not primary factors in this initial step as they do not directly impact patient classification. Ethnicity does not determine care needs, staff competency should already be ensured, and nurse education level is not the sole determinant of patient classification. Hence, A is the correct choice for developing an effective patient classification system.