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. When conducting an interview in an outpatient clinic using a computer to record data, what is the best use of the computer in this situation? Select all that apply.

• A. Collect the patient's data in a direct, face-to-face manner.
• B. Enter all the data as the patient states it.
• C. Ask the patient to wait as the data is entered.
• D. Type the data into the computer after establishing a connection.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A. Collect the patient's data in a direct, face-to-face manner: When conducting an interview in an outpatient clinic, it is essential to engage with the patient face-to-face to establish a rapport, gather their narrative, and ensure accurate data collection. Entering all the data as the patient states it (choice B) may lead to missing important details or misinterpretation. Asking the patient to wait as the data is entered (choice C) can create a disconnect in communication and reduce patient engagement. Typing the data into the computer after establishing a connection (choice D) is not ideal as it is important to collect data actively while interacting with the patient.

3. When working with children from different cultural perspectives, the healthcare provider may find it particularly challenging because:

• A. children's spiritual needs are influenced by their stages of development.
• B. children's spiritual needs are direct reflections of what is happening in their homes.
• C. religious beliefs often impact the parents' views on the illness.
• D. parents are usually the decision-makers, but they may lack awareness of their children's spiritual needs.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Children's spiritual needs are influenced by their stages of development, not just by what is happening in their homes. Understanding these needs requires knowledge of how children's spiritual beliefs evolve as they grow. Different cultural perspectives can bring varying beliefs and practices regarding children's spiritual development, which may challenge healthcare providers in addressing these needs effectively. Choice B is incorrect because children's spiritual needs are not solely reflections of their home environments but are shaped by various factors. Choice C is incorrect as it discusses the impact of parents' religious beliefs on illness views rather than focusing on children's spiritual needs. Choice D is incorrect as it addresses parental awareness of children's spiritual needs, which is not the primary challenge faced by healthcare providers in this context.

4. During an interview, a parent of a hospitalized child is sitting in an open position. As the interviewer begins to discuss his son's treatment, however, he suddenly crosses his arms against his chest and crosses his legs. This would suggest that the parent is:

• A. just changing positions.
• B. more comfortable in this position.
• C. tired and needs a break from the interview.
• D. uncomfortable talking about his son's treatment.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The parent's sudden change in body language from an open position to crossing arms and legs suggests discomfort or defensiveness, particularly when discussing his son's treatment. This closed-off position indicates a lack of willingness to share information and potentially signals discomfort with the topic being discussed. Choice A is incorrect as the abrupt shift in body language indicates more than just a change in position. Choice B is incorrect because crossing arms and legs typically signal defensiveness or discomfort rather than comfort. Choice C is incorrect as there are specific body language cues indicating discomfort rather than just fatigue.

5. What would be an appropriate nursing response when a mother reports that her 16-month-old toddler has an earache?

• A. Maybe the toddler is just teething.
• B. I will check her ear for an ear infection.
• C. Are you sure the toddler is really in pain?
• D. Please describe what the toddler is doing to indicate she is in pain.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The appropriate nursing response would be to assess the toddler's ear to determine if there is indeed an ear infection causing the earache. It is crucial to provide timely and suitable care for the child's pain and discomfort. Checking for an ear infection is a necessary step in evaluating the source of the toddler's earache. Choice A is incorrect as it assumes the earache is due to teething without proper assessment. Choice C questions the mother's report rather than focusing on the child's condition. Choice D is not as direct and focused as directly examining the ear for a possible infection.

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