Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. During an assessment, the nurse notices that a patient is handling a small charm that is tied to a leather strip around his neck. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

• A. Ask the patient about the item and its significance.
• B. Ask the patient to lock the item with other valuables in the hospital's safe.
• C. Tell the patient that a family member should take valuables home.
• D. No action is necessary.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The appropriate action for the nurse in this situation is to ask the patient about the charm and its significance. This helps the nurse understand the patient's cultural beliefs, personal values, and any potential significance the charm holds for the patient. It also shows respect for the patient's personal belongings. Asking about the charm can help establish rapport and cultural competence in the nurse-patient relationship. Choices B and C do not address the patient's attachment to the charm or provide an opportunity for cultural understanding. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the importance of acknowledging and respecting the patient's personal belongings.

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. The healthcare professional is reviewing concepts of cultural aspects of pain. Which statement is true regarding pain?

• A. All individuals will behave the same way when in pain.
• B. Just as individuals vary in their perceptions of pain, they will also vary in their expressions of pain.
• C. Cultural norms play a significant role in determining pain tolerance, as it is always biologically determined.
• D. A patient's expression of pain is largely dependent on the amount of tissue injury associated with the pain.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Patients vary in their perceptions of pain, which can be influenced by cultural factors, personal experiences, and psychological aspects. As a result, individuals will also vary in how they express their pain. Cultural norms, social environment, and individual differences all play a role in how pain is experienced and communicated. Therefore, it is important for healthcare professionals to recognize and respect these variations in order to provide appropriate pain management and support for patients. Choice A is incorrect because individuals do not behave the same way when in pain. Choice C is incorrect because pain tolerance is not solely biologically determined; cultural norms and individual differences also influence it. Choice D is incorrect because a patient's expression of pain can be influenced by various factors beyond the amount of tissue injury, such as emotional state and cultural beliefs.

5. 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.

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