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. 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.

3. When planning a cultural assessment, which component should be included?

• A. Family history
• B. Chief complaint
• C. Medical history
• D. Health-related beliefs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When planning a cultural assessment, the nurse should include the component of health-related beliefs. Understanding a person's cultural background and beliefs about health and wellness is crucial for providing culturally competent care. Health-related beliefs can impact a person's attitudes towards illness, treatment preferences, and adherence to medical recommendations. Therefore, assessing health-related beliefs is essential for delivering effective and respectful healthcare services. Choices A, B, and C are important components of a comprehensive patient assessment but are not specific to cultural considerations. While family history, chief complaint, and medical history are pertinent to understanding a patient's health status, health-related beliefs focus specifically on the cultural aspect that influences an individual's health perceptions and behaviors.

4. When providing culturally competent care, how should nurses incorporate cultural assessments into health assessments? Which statement is most appropriate when initiating an assessment of cultural beliefs with an elderly American Indian patient?

• A. "Are you of the Christian faith?"
• B. "Do you want to see a medicine man?"
• C. "How often do you seek help from medical providers?"
• D. "What cultural or spiritual beliefs are important to you?"

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate statement to initiate an assessment of cultural beliefs with an elderly American Indian patient is to ask, "What cultural or spiritual beliefs are important to you?" This question encourages the patient to share their personal beliefs without assuming stereotypes or making generalizations. It allows the patient to express their individual cultural and spiritual practices, enabling nurses to deliver more personalized and culturally competent care. Choices A, B, and C are not as suitable. Choice A assumes a specific faith without considering the patient's actual beliefs. Choice B relies on a stereotype about American Indian culture, and Choice C focuses more on seeking medical help rather than exploring cultural beliefs.

5. 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.

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