Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because nursing judgment related to withholding medication based on vital signs requires critical thinking, clinical knowledge, and experience. This decision-making process involves assessing the patient's condition, interpreting vital signs, and determining if medication should be given or withheld to ensure patient safety. This function cannot be delegated to someone without the appropriate training and expertise. A: Assessment of skin integrity on the third day of hospitalization can be delegated to other healthcare team members such as LPNs or nursing assistants, as long as they have been trained and deemed competent. B: Evaluation of patient teaching related to turn, cough, and deep breathing exercises can be delegated to other healthcare team members, as long as they have the appropriate training and supervision. D: The statement that RNs do not delegate to other RNs is incorrect. RNs can delegate certain tasks to other RNs based on their scope of practice and level of experience. It is not limited to LPNs or unlicensed assistive personnel.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the role of a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) involves coordinating and managing the care of patients. In this scenario, the CNL is revising the care plan for a patient with complex health issues, such as heart failure and chronic bronchitis, by incorporating specific interventions like ambulation with assistance. This aligns with the core responsibilities of a CNL, which include care coordination, implementation of evidence-based practice, and leadership in interdisciplinary teams. Choice A is incorrect because nurses, including CNLs, do not have the authority to diagnose and prescribe medications, as this falls under the scope of practice of a physician or advanced practice nurse. Choice B is incorrect because while health education and referral are important aspects of nursing practice, they are more aligned with the role of a community health nurse rather than a CNL. Choice C is incorrect because investigating abuse and criminal activities is beyond the scope of a CNL's role, as their focus is primarily on

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: variance. In this scenario, the nurse manager planned a budget based on a patient census of 6 but the actual census remained constant at 10, leading to higher-than-planned RN staff salaries. The difference between the planned budget and the actual cost is known as a variance. Variances help identify discrepancies between planned and actual expenses, enabling managers to adjust budgets accordingly. Revenue (A) refers to income generated, not the difference between planned and actual expenses. Monitoring (C) is the process of overseeing and evaluating activities, not specifically related to budget discrepancies. Capital expenditures (D) are long-term investments in assets, not related to budget variances.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: cultural self-assessment. This is important as it helps the nurse understand their own beliefs, values, and biases, which can impact how they interact with culturally diverse clients. By being self-aware, the nurse can better recognize and address any potential cultural misunderstandings or conflicts. A: Taking a sign language course is not the priority as not all culturally diverse clients are deaf or use sign language. C: While cultural client assessment is important, it is secondary to the nurse understanding their own cultural biases first. D: Taking a course on how to speak Spanish is helpful but may not address the broader cultural competence needed to work with diverse clients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Institute of Medicine. The Institute of Medicine is known for disseminating knowledge related to health care through government agencies, the public, business, and health care professionals to improve health outcomes. The organization conducts research and provides evidence-based recommendations to address health care challenges. A: Institute for Safe Medication Practices focuses specifically on promoting safe medication practices, not a broad range of health care knowledge dissemination. C: National Committee for Quality Assurance primarily focuses on accrediting and certifying health care organizations based on quality standards, rather than broadly distributing health care knowledge. D: The Joint Commission is responsible for accrediting health care organizations and institutions, ensuring they meet quality and safety standards, but not specifically for distributing health care knowledge to various stakeholders.