Nursing Elites

1. A __________ is often helpful to use when a problem is not easily identified.

• A. trial and error
• B. Delphi method
• C. political decision-making model
• D. affinity map

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An affinity map is a tool commonly used when a problem is not easily identified. It helps in organizing and grouping ideas, data, or information based on relationships or themes. Choice A, 'trial and error,' involves repeatedly trying different solutions until the problem is solved, which may not be efficient when the problem is not clearly defined. Choice B, the 'Delphi method,' is a structured communication technique for experts to reach a consensus, not specifically for unidentified problems. Choice C, 'political decision-making model,' refers to a process for making decisions in political contexts and is not directly related to identifying unknown problems.

2. A few weeks after an 82-year-old with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes has been placed on metformin (Glucophage) therapy and taught about appropriate diet and exercise, the home health nurse makes a visit. Which finding by the nurse is most important to discuss with the healthcare provider?

• A. Hemoglobin A1C level is 7.9%.
• B. Last eye exam was 18 months ago.
• C. Glomerular filtration rate is decreased.
• D. Patient has questions about the prescribed diet.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important finding to discuss with the healthcare provider is the decreased glomerular filtration rate. In patients on metformin therapy, monitoring kidney function is crucial as metformin is primarily excreted through the kidneys. A decreased glomerular filtration rate can lead to metformin accumulation in the body, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious adverse effect. The hemoglobin A1C level being 7.9% indicates poor diabetes control but can be addressed through medication adjustments and lifestyle modifications. The patient needing an eye exam after 18 months is important but not as urgent as discussing the decreased glomerular filtration rate. Patient questions about the prescribed diet can be addressed during the visit without the need for immediate healthcare provider intervention.

3. In the grievance process, a nurse disagrees with statements made by a physician about performance and talks to the nurse manager. Which step in the process is this?

• A. First
• B. Second
• C. Third
• D. Fourth

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: First. In the grievance process, the initial step involves the nurse talking to the nurse manager to address the issue informally. Subsequently, step two entails filing a written appeal to the director of nursing or designee. Step three involves a formal meeting with the employee, agent, grievance chairperson, nursing administrator, and director of human resources. The final step, step four, is arbitration, which is initiated when no mutually acceptable solutions can be reached by the involved parties. Therefore, the nurse talking to the nurse manager about the disagreement is the first step in the grievance process.

4. Quality management and benchmarking are two approaches used to improve the quality of care. The major difference between these two approaches is which of the following?

• A. Quality management is not useful in the outpatient setting
• B. Benchmarking compares outcomes in a variety of settings and disciplines
• C. Quality management is used only in the primary care setting
• D. Benchmarking looks only at outcomes specific to nursing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The major difference between quality management and benchmarking is that benchmarking compares outcomes in a variety of settings and disciplines. Choice A is incorrect because quality management can be applied in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Choice C is incorrect as quality management is not limited to primary care and can be implemented across various healthcare settings. Choice D is incorrect as benchmarking does not solely focus on nursing outcomes but rather compares outcomes across different disciplines and settings.

5. What is the main purpose of a nursing code of ethics?

• A. To protect the rights and dignity of patients
• B. To ensure compliance with healthcare laws
• C. To set standards for clinical practice
• D. To provide a framework for ethical decision-making in nursing practice

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main purpose of a nursing code of ethics is to provide a framework for ethical decision-making in nursing practice. While choice A is important, the primary focus of a nursing code of ethics is not solely to protect the rights and dignity of patients but to guide nurses in making ethical decisions. Choice B is more related to legal requirements, not the ethical aspects covered by a code of ethics. Choice C, setting standards for clinical practice, is important but distinct from the primary purpose of a code of ethics, which is centered on ethical decision-making.

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