Nursing Elites

1. An individual who takes the magicoreligious perspective of illness and disease is likely to believe that his or her illness was caused by:

• A. germs and viruses.
• B. supernatural forces.
• C. eating imbalanced foods.
• D. an imbalance within his or her spiritual nature.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The magicoreligious perspective of illness and disease is based on the belief that supernatural forces play a significant role in causing health problems. Individuals holding this perspective may believe that their illness was caused by curses, evil spirits, or other supernatural factors rather than conventional explanations like germs or viruses. This worldview influences how they perceive and seek treatment for their health conditions. Therefore, the correct answer is B) supernatural forces. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the supernatural beliefs associated with the magicoreligious perspective. This perspective focuses on attributing illness to supernatural causes rather than biological, dietary, or spiritual imbalances.

2. When an American Indian seeks help at the clinic for regulating her diabetes, the nurse can expect that she:

• A. will comply with the treatment prescribed.
• B. has not necessarily given up her beliefs in naturalistic causes of disease.
• C. may also be seeking the assistance of a shaman or medicine man.
• D. may need extra help in dealing with her illness and may be experiencing a crisis of faith.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: It is important to recognize that individuals from American Indian cultures may incorporate traditional healing practices, such as seeking the assistance of a shaman or medicine man, alongside biomedical treatments. This holistic approach to health and healing is a significant aspect of their cultural beliefs and practices. Choice A is incorrect because compliance with treatment may vary among individuals and cannot be generalized. Choice B is incorrect as it assumes that seeking traditional help means giving up beliefs in naturalistic causes of disease, which is not necessarily the case. Choice D is incorrect as it makes assumptions about the patient's emotional state and crisis of faith without evidence. Overall, understanding and respecting the integration of traditional healing practices is key to providing culturally sensitive care.

3. When communicating with a patient who has a hearing impairment, what technique would be most beneficial?

• A. Determine the communication method he prefers.
• B. Avoid using facial and hand gestures as they can be degrading to most hearing-impaired individuals.
• C. Request a sign language interpreter before meeting to facilitate communication.
• D. Speak loudly and with exaggerated facial movement, as this helps with lip reading.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When communicating with a patient who has a hearing impairment, it is crucial to determine the preferred communication method, whether it involves signing, lip reading, or writing. By directly asking the patient for their preferred method of communication, the healthcare provider can ensure effective and respectful interaction tailored to the individual's specific needs and preferences. Option B is incorrect because using facial and hand gestures can actually aid in communication for some individuals with hearing impairments. Option C is not always necessary and may not be the preferred method for all patients. Option D is incorrect because speaking loudly and with exaggerated facial movements is not necessary and may not be preferred by the patient.

4. During a wellness workshop, a healthcare provider is collecting comprehensive health histories from attendees. One of the written questions on the history form states, 'You don't smoke, drink, or take drugs, do you?' This question is an example of:

• A. talking too much.
• B. using confrontation.
• C. using biased or leading questions.
• D. using blunt language to address sensitive topics.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The question provided is an example of using biased or leading questions. It suggests that one answer is more socially acceptable or preferable than another, potentially pressuring the individual to respond in a specific way. This can result in inaccurate information being provided and may also evoke feelings of guilt or judgment, influencing the person's responses. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the nature of the question. The question does not involve talking too much, confrontation, or blunt language; instead, it leads the respondent towards a specific answer.

5. An elderly Mexican-American woman with traditional beliefs has been admitted to an inpatient care unit. A culturally-sensitive nurse would:

• A. contact the hospital administrator about the best course of action.
• B. automatically get a curandero for her because it is not culturally appropriate for her to request one.
• C. further assess the patient's cultural beliefs and offer the patient assistance in contacting a curandero or priest if she desires.
• D. ask the family what they would like to do because Mexican-Americans traditionally give control of decisions to their families.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When caring for a patient with traditional beliefs, especially one belonging to a culture like Mexican-American where folk or religious healers are important, a culturally-sensitive nurse should assess the patient's beliefs and preferences. By offering assistance in contacting a curandero or priest, the nurse acknowledges and respects the patient's cultural practices and provides holistic care that aligns with the patient's values. This approach helps build trust and ensures the patient receives care that is culturally appropriate and respectful. Choice A is incorrect as contacting the hospital administrator may not directly address the patient's cultural needs. Choice B is inappropriate as assuming the patient needs a curandero without assessment disregards individual preferences. Choice D is incorrect because while family involvement is valued in Mexican-American culture, the primary focus should be on the patient's individual preferences and autonomy.

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