Nursing Elites

1. When a nurse is performing a health interview on a patient with a language barrier and no interpreter is available, which of the following is the best example of an appropriate question for the nurse to ask?

• A. Do you take medicine?
• B. Do you sterilize the bottles?
• C. Do you have nausea and vomiting?
• D. You have been taking your medicine, haven't you?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best example of an appropriate question for the nurse to ask in this situation is 'Do you take medicine?' This question is clear, simple, and focused on one topic at a time, which is essential when there is a language barrier and no interpreter available. It follows the recommendation to use simple words, avoid medical jargon, contractions, and pronouns in such situations. Choices B, C, and D involve more complex language, unrelated topics, or assumptions about the patient's actions, making them less suitable for effective communication in this context.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. An elderly Mexican-American woman with traditional beliefs has been admitted to an inpatient care unit. A culturally-sensitive nurse would:

• A. contact the hospital administrator about the best course of action.
• B. automatically get a curandero for her because it is not culturally appropriate for her to request one.
• C. further assess the patient's cultural beliefs and offer the patient assistance in contacting a curandero or priest if she desires.
• D. ask the family what they would like to do because Mexican-Americans traditionally give control of decisions to their families.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When caring for a patient with traditional beliefs, especially one belonging to a culture like Mexican-American where folk or religious healers are important, a culturally-sensitive nurse should assess the patient's beliefs and preferences. By offering assistance in contacting a curandero or priest, the nurse acknowledges and respects the patient's cultural practices and provides holistic care that aligns with the patient's values. This approach helps build trust and ensures the patient receives care that is culturally appropriate and respectful. Choice A is incorrect as contacting the hospital administrator may not directly address the patient's cultural needs. Choice B is inappropriate as assuming the patient needs a curandero without assessment disregards individual preferences. Choice D is incorrect because while family involvement is valued in Mexican-American culture, the primary focus should be on the patient's individual preferences and autonomy.

5. 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.

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