Contemporary Issues in Nursing

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assessment. In the nursing process, the first step is assessment, which involves gathering data to identify the issue or problem. Similarly, in the policy process, identifying the problem is equivalent to the assessment phase. This step sets the foundation for the subsequent steps of diagnosis, planning, and implementation. Choice B: Diagnosis is incorrect as it comes after assessment in the nursing process and focuses on analyzing the data to determine the underlying cause of the issue. Choice C: Planning is incorrect as it follows diagnosis in the nursing process and involves developing a plan of action based on the identified problem. Choice D: Implementation is incorrect as it is the final step in the nursing process where the plan is put into action after assessment, diagnosis, and planning have been completed.

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.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a residency program offers extended time for both theory and clinical activities that promote problem-solving and clinical decision-making skills. This is important for new graduates to enhance their clinical skills and transition into practice effectively. A: Providing housing for the graduate nurse is not typically a component of a residency program. B: Partnering a medical resident with a nurse resident for interprofessional care is not a defining feature of a nursing residency program. C: Allowing new graduates to work on a higher degree in nursing while being paid full-time is not the primary focus of a nursing residency program, which is more about developing clinical skills.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: planning. Setting goals in collaboration with other healthcare team members falls under the planning phase of the nursing process. During this phase, nurses work with the healthcare team to establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for patient care. This involves identifying priorities, outlining interventions, and determining the expected outcomes. Collaboration with the healthcare team ensures that goals are comprehensive and align with the overall care plan. Incorrect Choices: A: Assessment - Assessment involves collecting and analyzing data to identify the patient's needs and problems. Setting goals is not part of the assessment phase. C: Analysis - Analysis involves interpreting data and identifying patterns or relationships. Setting goals is more focused on planning and identifying interventions. D: Implementation - Implementation involves carrying out the planned interventions to achieve the established goals. Setting goals precedes the implementation phase.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: diagnosis-related groups (DRGs). This classification system assigns a fixed price to specific diagnoses or procedures, such as pneumonia, for reimbursement purposes. DRGs aim to standardize payment based on patient diagnosis and treatment, promoting efficiency and cost containment in healthcare. B: Subjective symptom management is not a classification system for reimbursement but rather a method of addressing patient symptoms. C: Acuity classification system refers to determining the level of care a patient needs based on severity, not reimbursement. D: Organized managed care involves coordination of healthcare services and providers, not specific classification for reimbursement.