Nursing Elites

1. A client has been diagnosed with a form of terminal cancer and has started receiving hospice care. The nurse notes that both the client and his family avoid talking about the diagnosis. All attempts at discussion result in changing the subject. The nurse recognizes that this family is exhibiting:

• A. Closed awareness
• B. Mutual pretense
• C. Open awareness
• D. Powerless assessment

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Mutual pretense.' Mutual pretense is a form of awareness as a response to death or dying in which those involved avoid discussing the situation. In this scenario, both the client and the family are aware of the terminal cancer diagnosis, but they choose not to talk about it openly. This behavior can stem from various reasons, such as trying to shield loved ones from grief, fear of the future, or discomfort with discussing emotions. 'Closed awareness' (Choice A) refers to a lack of awareness of the impending death, which is not the case here. 'Open awareness' (Choice C) involves open acknowledgment and discussion of the terminal illness, which is contrary to the behavior described. 'Powerless assessment' (Choice D) does not relate to the situation of avoiding discussing the diagnosis in the context of terminal cancer and hospice care.

2. During a scheduled health maintenance visit, which common source of stress for a 6-year-old client would the nurse include in the teaching session?

• A. Wanting to be first
• B. Demanding privacy
• C. Having a desire to be like an idol
• D. Being more selective with playmates

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A common source of stress for a 6-year-old school-age client is competition, such as wanting to be first or the best (winning). This aspect can create stress for a 6-year-old as they navigate social interactions and activities. Therefore, the nurse would address this issue during the teaching session at the health maintenance visit. Demanding privacy, having a desire to be like an idol, and being more selective with playmates are characteristics more commonly associated with 7-year-old clients, not typically seen in the stressors of a 6-year-old. Understanding age-appropriate stressors is crucial for providing tailored education and support in pediatric care.

3. According to the CDC, which of the following age groups is most likely to meet the criteria for major depression?

• A. 18-24 years
• B. 25-34 years
• C. 35-44 years
• D. 45-64 years

Correct answer: D

Rationale: According to the CDC, individuals aged 45-64 years are most likely to meet the criteria for major depression. While patients in the 18-24 year age group are more likely to report symptoms of depression, when it comes to major depression, the prevalence is higher in the 45-64 year age group. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the CDC indicates that major depression is most prevalent in the 45-64 year age group.

4. A female client who is undergoing infertility testing is taught how to examine her cervical mucus. After listening to the instructions, the client says, 'That sounds gross. I don't think I can do it.' Which conclusion would the nurse make from this statement?

• A. The client is unduly fastidious.
• B. The client feels that having a baby is not that important.
• C. The client may be uncomfortable with performing manual examination of the genitals.
• D. The client is afraid that she is the cause of the infertility.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The client's statement expressing discomfort with the procedure indicates a potential unease with performing a manual examination of her genitals. It is not uncommon for individuals to feel uncomfortable or anxious about such intimate procedures. The nurse should explore this further with the client to address any concerns or fears. The option stating that the client is unduly fastidious lacks evidence and is not supported by the client's statement. The assumption that the client does not value having a baby is not warranted based on the given statement. While self-blame is a common emotional response in cases of infertility, the client's statement does not directly suggest this as the primary concern in this scenario.

5. A Hispanic patient complains of abdominal cramping caused by empacho. Which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Ask the patient what treatments are likely to help
• B. Massage the patient's abdomen until the pain subsides.
• C. Administer prescribed medications to decrease the cramping
• D. Offer to contact a curandero(a) for a visit to the patient

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a Hispanic patient presents with abdominal cramping related to empacho, it is crucial for the nurse to first understand the patient's cultural beliefs and preferences before initiating any interventions. In the case of a culture-bound syndrome like empacho, it is essential to acknowledge and respect the patient's cultural background. While options like administering medications, arranging a visit by a curandero(a), or providing massage may have potential benefits, assessing the patient's beliefs ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive and aligned with the patient's values. By engaging the patient in a discussion about potential treatments, the nurse can gather valuable information to tailor care effectively, promoting trust and collaboration in the healthcare process. This patient-centered approach enhances the quality of care and fosters a culturally competent nursing practice. Therefore, asking the patient about preferred treatments is the most appropriate initial action to address the patient's condition effectively.

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