Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. What are the key elements essential to the implementation of case management? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Collaborative practice teams
• B. Established critical pathways
• C. Quality management system
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Established critical pathways, collaborative practice teams, and quality management systems are indeed key elements essential to the implementation of case management. Collaborative practice teams allow for multidisciplinary collaboration, established critical pathways help guide patient care, and a quality management system ensures that care provided meets established standards. Choice A, collaborative practice teams, is correct as they are fundamental for effective case management, involving various professionals working together. Choice B, established critical pathways, is also correct as they provide a structured approach to managing patient care. Choice C, quality management system, is correct as it ensures that care is delivered at high standards and continuously monitored for improvement. Therefore, all these elements are crucial for successful case management implementation.

3. Which of the following best describes intrinsic values?

• A. Intrinsic values are often abstract ideas.
• B. Intrinsic values are basic needs for sustaining life.
• C. Intrinsic values are qualities patients consider to be important in their private lives.
• D. Intrinsic values are qualities patients consider important for nurses to have.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because intrinsic values refer to fundamental beliefs and principles that guide a person's behavior and decision-making. These values are deeply ingrained and are essential for sustaining life and well-being. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because intrinsic values are not just abstract ideas, qualities important in private lives, or qualities patients desire in others; they are the core principles that individuals hold dear to lead a fulfilling life.

4. Which of the following are essential components of strategic planning?

• A. Values
• B. Vision & Mission statements
• C. Reengineering
• D. A & B

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In strategic planning, values and vision and mission statements play crucial roles. Values guide the organization's culture and decision-making processes, while vision and mission statements outline its long-term goals and purpose. Reengineering, on the other hand, is a separate process focused on restructuring business processes for improved performance efficiency. Therefore, the correct components of strategic planning are values and vision and mission statements, making option D the correct answer. Choices A and B are correct because they are directly related to setting the direction and purpose of the organization in a strategic planning process, while choice C, reengineering, is not typically considered a core element of strategic planning.

5. Integrated health care systems function in a variety of models. Which of the following is a common characteristic of all systems?

• A. Deliver selective care only
• B. Deliver a whole continuum of care
• C. Treat patients only in the hospital
• D. Provide care only in the primary care setting

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Integrated health care systems are designed to provide a whole continuum of care, which includes preventive, primary, specialty, hospital, and long-term care services. This integration ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care across different healthcare settings. Choice A is incorrect because integrated systems aim to provide a wide range of services, not selective care only. Choice C is incorrect as integrated systems extend care beyond hospital settings. Choice D is incorrect as these systems offer care across various settings, not limited to primary care only.

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