Nursing Elites

1. Following a recent lawsuit that implicated one of their colleagues, the nursing staff at an assisted-living facility are especially aware of the need to safeguard themselves legally. Which of the following measures should the nurses take? Select one that does not apply.

• A. Investigate whether their liability insurance is sufficient
• B. Ensure that work performed by unlicensed care staff under their supervision is adequate
• C. Avoid admitting residents who have living wills or advance directives
• D. Assess the competence of employees under their supervision

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Denying admission to residents with living wills or advance directives is not a legal safeguard measure and may be considered discriminatory. Measures like investigating liability insurance adequacy, ensuring adequate work by unlicensed staff, and assessing employee competence are all valid ways for nurses to protect themselves legally. These measures help in ensuring proper care, reducing risks, and maintaining a high standard of practice.

2. What is a standard of care?

• A. A relationship in which a nurse has assumed responsibility for the care of a patient
• B. A policy or procedure established by a health care agency or professional association
• C. The norm for what a reasonable individual would do in a similar circumstance
• D. A public law that, if violated, can result in liability for the nurse

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A standard of care is the level of care that a reasonably prudent person with similar training and experience would provide in a similar circumstance. Choice A is incorrect because it describes the nurse-patient relationship. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to specific policies or procedures. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a law rather than the expected level of care.

3. What might a nurse suggest to help the grown children make the most of their limited incomes and time with their parents?

• A. Help them find nearby spots for picnics or other free outings
• B. Refer the family to a more appropriate practitioner
• C. Suggest they take out a second mortgage on the family house
• D. Encourage the entire family to participate in activities at Haven

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A nurse, as a caring worker, may suggest helping the grown children find nearby spots for picnics or other free outings. This suggestion would allow the parents to get out of the facility and enjoy quality time with their children without any financial burden. While the family may also want to participate in activities at the facility, a picnic would provide a change of scenery. Referring the family to a more appropriate practitioner is not relevant to improving the limited incomes and time spent with the parents. Suggesting to take out a second mortgage on the family house could provide temporary financial relief but may not be the most suitable solution for maximizing time spent with the parents.

4. During a family meeting that the nurse organized during an older adult's discharge planning from the hospital, there is visible animosity between the son and daughter of the patient. What should the nurse's initial response be to the apparent family dysfunction?

• A. Teach the patient's children alternative methods of interaction.
• B. Encourage the family to choose one spokesperson to represent all the children.
• C. Organize separate meetings with the son and with the daughter.
• D. Assess the family history and the nature of the son and daughter's relationship.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct initial response for the nurse in this situation is to assess the family history and the nature of the son and daughter's relationship. By gathering data and identifying factors contributing to the dysfunction, the nurse can better understand the underlying issues and dynamics at play. Teaching alternative methods of interaction (Choice A) may not address the root cause of the animosity. Encouraging one spokesperson for the family (Choice B) may overlook individual concerns. Organizing separate meetings (Choice C) may not provide a holistic view of the family dynamics and may not address the issues affecting the family unit as a whole. Therefore, assessing the family history and relationship dynamics is essential for effective intervention and resolution of the family dysfunction.

5. A 52-year-old woman is preparing to have her father move into her home after his discharge from the hospital. Which of the following subjects should the discharge planning nurse prioritize when preparing the woman for her new caregiving role?

• A. The availability and scope of community resources
• B. The importance of her own self-care and techniques for maximizing it
• C. Assertiveness training to ensure she can set limits
• D. Management of finances

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. It is crucial for the discharge planning nurse to prioritize the importance of the woman's self-care and provide techniques for maximizing it. When taking on a caregiving role, the caregiver's well-being is essential to ensure effective care for the patient. While community resources (choice A) are important, the immediate focus should be on self-care. Assertiveness training (choice C) and financial management (choice D) are also significant but not as critical as self-care for the caregiver in this scenario.

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