Nursing Elites

1. The Hawthorne effect explains that the relationship between people and productivity is enhanced by which of the following?

• A. Special attention
• B. Organizations
• C. Creativity
• D. Groups

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The Hawthorne effect is a term used to describe how people modify their behavior in response to the attention they are receiving rather than the manipulation of variables. Special attention, as mentioned in choice A, is the correct answer because when individuals feel that they are being closely monitored or that special interest is being taken in them, they tend to perform better or change their behavior. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the Hawthorne effect specifically focuses on the impact of attention and not on organizational structures, creativity, or group dynamics.

2. After change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first?

• A. 19-year-old with type 1 diabetes who was admitted with possible dawn phenomenon
• B. 35-year-old with type 1 diabetes whose most recent blood glucose reading was 230 mg/dL
• C. 60-year-old with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome who has poor skin turgor and dry oral mucosa
• D. 68-year-old with type 2 diabetes who has severe peripheral neuropathy and complains of burning foot pain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The patient with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome who presents with poor skin turgor and dry oral mucosa requires immediate attention. These signs indicate severe dehydration and potential electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to serious complications. Assessing this patient first allows for prompt intervention and monitoring to stabilize their condition. Choice A is less urgent as the patient has possible dawn phenomenon, which is a common early-morning rise in blood glucose levels. Choice B, with a blood glucose reading of 230 mg/dL, indicates hyperglycemia but does not present with signs of severe dehydration like the patient in choice C. Choice D, with peripheral neuropathy and foot pain, is important but not as urgent as addressing severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in the patient with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome.

3. Which of the following laws govern nursing practice?

• A. Statutory laws
• B. Common law
• C. Administrative laws
• D. Constitutional laws

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Statutory laws are laws created by legislative bodies, such as state legislatures. In the context of nursing practice, statutory laws govern areas like licensure requirements, scope of practice, and professional standards. Common law, choice B, is based on court decisions and precedents, not specifically related to nursing practice. Administrative laws, choice C, deal with regulations set by administrative agencies rather than governing nursing practice directly. Constitutional laws, choice D, pertain to the fundamental principles outlined in a country's constitution and are not specific to regulating nursing practice.

4. Which of the following strategies is most effective for reducing medication errors on a nursing unit?

• A. Increasing the nurse-to-patient ratio
• B. Providing ongoing education on safe medication practices
• C. Using barcoding technology for medication administration
• D. Increasing the use of PRN medications

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most effective strategy for reducing medication errors on a nursing unit is using barcoding technology for medication administration. Barcoding technology helps to ensure the right medication is given to the right patient in the right dose at the right time. Increasing the nurse-to-patient ratio (choice A) may help in preventing errors due to workload, but it may not address the root cause of medication errors. Providing ongoing education (choice B) is important but may not be as effective as implementing technology to directly prevent errors during administration. Increasing the use of PRN medications (choice D) can actually increase the risk of errors if not carefully monitored and controlled.

5. A nurse is planning care of an adolescent who is postoperative following a lumbar laminectomy. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Limit the adolescent's visitors.
• B. Select the adolescent's food choices.
• C. Encourage the adolescent's guardian to assist with personal hygiene.
• D. Allow the adolescent to make decisions regarding their daily routine.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because after a lumbar laminectomy, the adolescent may need assistance with personal hygiene due to limited mobility and pain. Encouraging the guardian to assist with personal hygiene ensures proper care and prevents complications. Choice A is incorrect as limiting visitors may affect the adolescent's emotional well-being and support system. Choice B is incorrect as the adolescent should have autonomy in selecting their food choices as long as they align with their dietary restrictions post-surgery. Choice D is incorrect as the adolescent may need guidance and support in decision-making during the postoperative period.

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