Nursing Elites

1. Many patient classification systems have some type of shortcoming. Among these are:

• A. The client's condition changes before the next shift.
• B. The staffing needs are predicted on a short-term basis.
• C. The potential admissions cannot be accounted for.
• D. The staffing mix changes because of illness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Patient classification systems have limitations in accounting for changes in a client's condition, unexpected influx of new admissions, and changes in staffing due to illness. These systems often focus on short-term staffing needs rather than utilizing demand management, which considers client outcomes to predict staffing needs over a longer period. Not being able to account for potential admissions can lead to challenges in effectively managing staff allocation and resources. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific limitation of patient classification systems related to accounting for potential admissions.

2. Healthcare systems primarily have functional structures. Which of the following would be an example of this?

• A. Open communication exists between Physical Therapy and Nursing.
• B. Medicine has authority over nursing.
• C. Laboratory services have little authority.
• D. All nursing tasks fall under nursing service.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. In functional structures, employees are grouped in departments by specialty, with similar tasks being performed by the same group. This means that in a healthcare system with a functional structure, all nursing tasks would fall under the nursing service. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because open communication between departments, one department having authority over another, or the level of authority of a particular department do not necessarily represent a functional structure.

3. Which agency reviews whether an organization meets its own criteria for staffing?

• A. American Nurses Association (ANA)
• B. Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)
• C. Patient Classification Systems (PCSs)
• D. Nursing Care Hours (NCHs)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). This agency specifies that the right number of competent staff should be provided to meet client's needs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not focus on the review of staffing criteria within an organization. The American Nurses Association (ANA) is an organization that supports nurses, Patient Classification Systems (PCSs) are tools used for patient classification, and Nursing Care Hours (NCHs) are related to the number of care hours provided.

4. Which of the following best describes the concept of patient-centered care?

• A. Care that is directed solely by healthcare providers
• B. Care that involves coordination among multiple healthcare providers
• C. Care that prioritizes the patient's preferences, needs, and values
• D. Care that strictly adheres to the latest clinical guidelines

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Patient-centered care is a healthcare approach that places the patient at the center of decision-making, emphasizing their preferences, needs, and values. This approach ensures that care is tailored to individual patients, taking into account their unique circumstances and actively involving them in their own care. Choice A is incorrect because patient-centered care focuses on the patient's needs rather than being solely directed by healthcare providers. Choice B is incorrect as involving multiple healthcare providers doesn't necessarily mean care is patient-centered; instead, it's about tailoring care to the patient's individual needs. Choice D is also incorrect as patient-centered care goes beyond just following clinical guidelines to encompass individual patient preferences and values.

5. When a patient with type 2 diabetes is admitted for a cholecystectomy, which nursing action can the nurse delegate to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)?

• A. Communicate the blood glucose level and insulin dose to the circulating nurse in surgery.
• B. Discuss the reason for the use of insulin therapy during the immediate postoperative period.
• C. Administer the prescribed lispro (Humalog) insulin before transporting the patient to surgery.
• D. Plan strategies to minimize the risk for hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia during the postoperative period.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the administration of prescribed lispro (Humalog) insulin before transporting the patient to surgery is a task that can be safely delegated to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN). This action is within the scope of practice of an LPN/LVN and does not require independent nursing judgment. Choices A and B involve communicating and discussing important medical information, which are higher-level nursing actions typically performed by registered nurses. Choice D involves planning strategies to manage blood glucose levels postoperatively, which requires critical thinking and assessment skills usually performed by a registered nurse.

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