Nursing Elites

1. An RN is writing reminders for good documentation for the nurses on her staff. The purpose is to ensure nursing documentation is legally credible. Which of the following is a recommendation she should include in the reminders?

• A. Use shortcuts in documentation.
• B. Only use approved abbreviations.
• C. Documentation should be subjective.
• D. Document after care is provided.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct recommendation the RN should include in the reminders is to 'Only use approved abbreviations.' Using shortcuts in documentation (choice A) may lead to errors or omissions, affecting the credibility of documentation. Documentation should be objective (choice C) rather than subjective to ensure accuracy and legal credibility. It is essential to document care promptly after providing it (choice D) to maintain the accuracy and completeness of patient records, but using approved abbreviations is a more specific recommendation to enhance legal credibility.

2. A healthcare professional is caring for a client who has a sodium level of 125 mEq/L (136 to 145 mEq/L). Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional expect?

• A. Positive Chvostek's sign
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Numbness of the extremities
• D. Abdominal cramping

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A sodium level of 125 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, which can lead to abdominal cramping. Abdominal cramping is a common symptom of hyponatremia due to an imbalance in electrolytes. While other options like Chvostek's sign, bradycardia, and numbness of the extremities can be associated with other electrolyte imbalances, they are not typically seen with low sodium levels. Chvostek's sign is related to hypocalcemia, bradycardia can be seen in hyperkalemia, and numbness of the extremities can be a symptom of hypocalcemia or hypokalemia, but not directly related to hyponatremia.

3. A resident on night call refuses to answer pages from the staff nurse on the night shift and complains that she calls too often with minor problems. The nurse feels offended and reacts with frequent, middle-of-the-night phone calls to 'get back' at him. The behavior displayed by the resident and the nurse is an example of what kind of conflict?

• A. Perceived conflict
• B. Disruptive conflict
• C. Competitive conflict
• D. Felt conflict

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The behavior displayed by the resident and the nurse is an example of disruptive conflict. In disruptive conflict, the parties involved engage in activities to reduce, defeat, or eliminate the opponent. The resident refusing to answer calls and the nurse retaliating with frequent calls to 'get back' at him exemplify behaviors aimed at causing disruption and conflict between them. Perceived conflict refers to each party's perception of the other's position, competitive conflict involves one side winning at the expense of the other, and felt conflict is about the feelings of opposition within the relationship, none of which fully capture the nature of the conflict displayed in this scenario.

4. The nurse manager is talking with the CNA about her time management. Which of the following is an example of a nurse manager as a coach?

• A. Your timely response to patients' call lights is exemplary.
• B. Your appearance is seldom professional.
• C. You must get the vital signs taken on time or you will be disciplined.
• D. You never report AM blood sugar levels on time.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Your timely response to patients' call lights is exemplary.' This choice reflects a positive reinforcement approach, providing feedback that praises and encourages good behavior. A coach in a professional setting aims to motivate, guide, and support staff rather than focusing on negative aspects or threats of discipline. Effective coaching involves recognizing and acknowledging employees' strengths and achievements to inspire continuous improvement and development. Choices B, C, and D are not examples of coaching as they either focus on criticism regarding appearance, use threatening language, or highlight a negative behavior without offering guidance or support.

5. Which of the following factors may affect successful communication?

• A. Cultural background
• B. Organizational structure
• C. Method of communication
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Various factors can influence successful communication. Cultural background is crucial as different cultures may have distinct communication styles and norms. Organizational structure plays a role by determining the flow of information within an organization. The method of communication chosen can impact the clarity and effectiveness of the message being conveyed. Therefore, all the options provided - cultural background, organizational structure, and method of communication - can affect successful communication, making 'All of the above' the correct answer.

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