Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional is experiencing moral distress due to an ethical dilemma. Which of the following best describes the healthcare professional’s response to this situation?

• A. The healthcare professional is experiencing moral distress because the ethical dilemma is causing a conflict between the healthcare professional’s personal values and professional responsibilities.
• B. The healthcare professional is experiencing moral distress because the ethical dilemma is causing a conflict between the healthcare professional’s obligations to the patient and the healthcare team.
• C. The healthcare professional is experiencing moral distress because the ethical dilemma is causing a conflict between the healthcare professional’s personal beliefs and the expectations of the healthcare organization.
• D. The healthcare professional is experiencing moral distress because the ethical dilemma is causing a conflict between the healthcare professional’s professional judgment and the wishes of the patient’s family.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Moral distress occurs when a healthcare professional experiences a conflict between personal values and professional responsibilities, leading to emotional and ethical challenges. Choice B is incorrect because moral distress is primarily related to personal values and professional responsibilities, not just obligations to the patient and healthcare team. Choice C is incorrect because moral distress is more about personal values and professional responsibilities, rather than organizational expectations. Choice D is incorrect because moral distress is focused on personal values and professional responsibilities, not just conflicts with the wishes of the patient’s family.

2. In a male client with a history of hypertension diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism, the hypertension is caused by excessive hormone secretion from which of the following glands?

• A. Adrenal cortex
• B. Pancreas
• C. Adrenal medulla
• D. Parathyroid

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Primary hyperaldosteronism is characterized by excessive secretion of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone, a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by promoting sodium and water retention in the kidneys. The adrenal medulla secretes catecholamines like epinephrine and norepinephrine, which are involved in the 'fight or flight' response, not in regulating blood pressure. The pancreas secretes insulin and glucagon, hormones involved in blood sugar regulation, not blood pressure. The parathyroid glands regulate calcium levels in the blood, not blood pressure.

3. Which of the following statements is true regarding ethical principles and laws?

• A. The government enforces ethics.
• B. Laws establish standards that aid in decision-making.
• C. Ethics are highly specific.
• D. Ethical principles can serve as the foundation for laws.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Ethical principles can influence the creation of laws but are not equivalent to laws themselves. Laws are established by governing bodies to provide a framework for society, whereas ethical principles guide individuals' moral conduct. Choice A is incorrect because governments enforce laws, not ethics. Choice B is incorrect as laws set legal standards rather than ethical ones. Choice C is incorrect because ethics are principles that guide behavior but are not necessarily highly specific.

4. Why might an RN need professional liability insurance?

• A. Protection against frivolous lawsuits without incurring expenses.
• B. Immunity from being sued by the institution if guilty of malpractice.
• C. Coverage for charges of libel, slander, assault, and HIPAA violations.
• D. Exclusively doctors face malpractice lawsuits.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Having professional liability insurance is crucial for Registered Nurses due to various reasons. Choice A is incorrect because there are expenses associated with defending against frivolous lawsuits. Choice B is incorrect as institutions can still sue a nurse found guilty of malpractice. Choice D is incorrect because malpractice lawsuits can be filed against healthcare professionals, including nurses. Therefore, the correct answer is C, as liability policies can provide coverage for charges involving libel, slander, assault, and breaches of patient confidentiality like HIPAA violations, offering essential protection for RNs in their practice.

5. Nurse Ruth is assessing a client after a thyroidectomy. The assessment reveals muscle twitching and tingling, along with numbness in the fingers, toes, and mouth area. The nurse should suspect which complication?

• A. Tetany
• B. Hemorrhage
• C. Thyroid storm
• D. Laryngeal nerve damage

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Tetany.' Tetany is characterized by muscle twitching, tingling, and numbness, which are indicative of hypocalcemia. After a thyroidectomy, accidental removal or damage to the parathyroid glands can lead to decreased calcium levels, resulting in tetany. Choice B, 'Hemorrhage,' is incorrect as it typically presents with symptoms such as sudden swelling, increased pain, or drop in blood pressure. Choice C, 'Thyroid storm,' is incorrect as it involves a sudden exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, leading to symptoms like fever, tachycardia, and confusion. Choice D, 'Laryngeal nerve damage,' is incorrect as it would manifest with voice changes, difficulty swallowing, or respiratory distress, not the symptoms described in the scenario.

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