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. In the majority culture of America, coughing, sweating, and diarrhea are symptoms of an illness. For some individuals of Mexican-American origin, however, these symptoms are a normal part of living. The nurse recognizes that this is true, probably because Mexican-Americans:

• A. have less efficient immune systems and are often ill.
• B. consider these symptoms a part of normal living, not symptoms of ill health.
• C. come from Mexico where coughing is normal and healthy.
• D. are usually in a lower socioeconomic group and are more likely to be sick.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In Mexican-American culture, coughing, sweating, and diarrhea are often considered normal bodily functions and not necessarily indicative of illness. This cultural perspective shapes their understanding of health and illness, leading them to view these symptoms differently than the majority culture in America. Choice A is incorrect because it generalizes Mexican-Americans as having less efficient immune systems, which is not supported by evidence. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies by attributing the perception solely to coming from Mexico. Choice D is incorrect as it makes unwarranted assumptions about the socioeconomic status and health status of Mexican-Americans.

3. During an interview, the interviewer is using open-ended questions. Which of the following statements are true regarding open-ended questions? Select all that apply.

• A. They elicit cold facts.
• B. They allow for self-expression.
• C. They build and enhance deviation from topic
• D. They leave interactions neutral.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Open-ended questions are designed to encourage the interviewee to express themselves freely, leading to more detailed and insightful responses. These questions help build rapport by showing interest in the interviewee's thoughts and feelings. By allowing for self-expression, open-ended questions facilitate a deeper and more meaningful conversation, making them a valuable tool in conducting interviews. Choice A is incorrect because open-ended questions aim to gather detailed and subjective information, not just cold facts. Choice D is incorrect as open-ended questions often lead to more engaging interactions rather than leaving them neutral.

4. During an interview, note-taking may impede the nurse's observation of the patient's nonverbal behaviors. Which statement is true regarding note-taking?

• A. Note-taking may impede the nurse's observation of the patient's nonverbal behaviors.
• B. Note-taking allows the patient to continue at their own pace as the nurse records what is said.
• C. Note-taking allows the nurse to shift attention away from the patient, resulting in an increased comfort level.
• D. Note-taking allows the nurse to break eye contact with the patient, which may increase their level of comfort.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Note-taking during an interview can impede the nurse's ability to observe the patient's nonverbal behaviors, such as body language and facial expressions, which are important aspects of communication. It may break eye contact too often, shift attention away from the patient, interrupt the patient's narrative flow, and diminish the patient's sense of importance. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to balance the need for note-taking with maintaining active listening and observation skills to ensure effective communication and rapport building with the patient. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because note-taking can actually hinder the patient's narrative flow, decrease the nurse's observation of nonverbal cues, and potentially make the patient feel less important or attended to due to distractions caused by the note-taking process.

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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