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. Why is increasing the use of advanced practice nurses encouraged?

• A. A 2010 Institute of Medicine report recommended nurses practice to the full extent of their education.
• B. Advanced practice nurses act as an extension of physicians.
• C. The National League for Nursing advocates for the master of science in nursing (MSN) as the terminal degree for nurse practitioners.
• D. Advanced practice nurses lack the skills to diagnose.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the 2010 Institute of Medicine report recommended that nurses practice to the full extent of their education, which includes utilizing advanced practice nurses. This supports the efficient delivery of healthcare services by leveraging the expertise and skills of advanced practice nurses. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the role of advanced practice nurses rather than providing a reason for increasing their use. Choice C is unrelated to the encouragement of increasing the use of advanced practice nurses as it focuses on the terminal degree for nurse practitioners. Choice D is incorrect as advanced practice nurses do possess the skills necessary to diagnose and provide advanced care, so the statement that they lack diagnostic skills is inaccurate.

3. A Staff Nurse submits a six-week notice of resignation. The Nurse Manager prepares a request to immediately post the position and begin interviews. This action is best described as which of the following?

• A. Delegation
• B. A time-waster
• C. Reactive management
• D. Proactive management

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Proactive management. Proactive management involves taking steps to prevent issues from occurring rather than just reacting to them. In this scenario, the Nurse Manager is being proactive by preparing to fill the position before the Staff Nurse leaves, thereby preventing short staffing. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Delegation refers to assigning tasks to others, not preparing to fill a vacant position. Calling it a time-waster is subjective and not reflective of the manager's proactive approach. Reactive management would involve waiting until the Nurse leaves and then trying to fill the position, causing short staffing.

4. Which agency reviews whether an organization meets its own criteria for staffing?

• A. American Nurses Association (ANA)
• B. Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)
• C. Patient Classification Systems (PCSs)
• D. Nursing Care Hours (NCHs)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). This agency specifies that the right number of competent staff should be provided to meet client's needs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not focus on the review of staffing criteria within an organization. The American Nurses Association (ANA) is an organization that supports nurses, Patient Classification Systems (PCSs) are tools used for patient classification, and Nursing Care Hours (NCHs) are related to the number of care hours provided.

5. A new nurse is thinking about the ways she can demonstrate leadership in her position. Which of the following is true about leadership?

• A. Leadership is a component of nursing practice.
• B. Leadership requires a position of oversight.
• C. Leadership depends on the actions of others.
• D. Only experienced nurses can demonstrate leadership.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Leadership is a component of nursing practice.' Leadership is an essential aspect of nursing practice that involves inspiring, guiding, and influencing others to achieve common goals. Choice B is incorrect because leadership can be demonstrated at various levels within an organization, not just positions of oversight. Choice C is incorrect as leadership involves taking initiative and guiding others, rather than depending solely on the actions of others. Choice D is incorrect as leadership qualities can be demonstrated by individuals at all levels of experience, not exclusively by experienced nurses.

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