Nursing Elites

1. The nurse observes bilateral bruises on the arms of an elderly client in a long-term care facility. Which of the following questions should the nurse ask this client?

• A. "How did you get those bruises?"?
• B. "Did someone grab you by your arms?"?
• C. "Do you fall often?"?
• D. "What did you bump against?"?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When addressing suspected abuse, it is crucial to ask direct questions to determine the cause of injuries. Choice B is the most appropriate as it directly inquires about the possibility of someone grabbing the client's arms, which could indicate abuse. This question can help uncover potential abuse and provide necessary intervention. Choices A, C, and D are less direct and may not elicit the critical information needed to address abuse effectively. Clients often hesitate to report abuse due to feelings of shame and fear of retaliation, making a direct approach essential in such situations.

2. Two staff nurses were considered for promotion to head nurse. The promotion is announced via a memo on the unit bulletin board. The nurse who was not promoted tells a friend, "Oh, well, I really didn't want the job anyway."? This is an example of:

• A. rationalization.
• B. denial.
• C. projection.
• D. compensation.

Correct answer: A.

Rationale: This is an example of rationalization, specifically the sour grapes form, where the individual convinces themselves that they didn't want something after realizing they couldn't have it. Rationalization is an unconscious form of self-deception involving making excuses. In this scenario, the nurse is rationalizing her disappointment by downplaying her desire for the promotion. Denial involves ignoring the existence of a situation, which is not demonstrated here. Projection involves blaming others unconsciously, which is also not present in this situation. Compensation is an attempt to offset a perceived weakness by emphasizing a strong point, which is not shown in the nurse's response.

3. An elderly client denies that abuse is occurring. Which of the following factors could be a barrier for the client to admit being a victim?

• A. knowledge that elder abuse is rare
• B. personal belief that abuse is deserved
• C. lack of developmentally appropriate screening tools
• D. fear of reprisal or further violence if the incident is reported

Correct answer: D

Rationale: One of the significant barriers for elderly clients to admit being victims of abuse is the fear of reprisal or further violence if the incident is reported. Elderly individuals may be afraid of the consequences of reporting abuse, such as retaliation or increased violence from the abuser. This fear can prevent them from disclosing their victimization. Choices A and C are incorrect as knowledge of the rarity of elder abuse and the availability of appropriate screening tools do not directly impact the client's willingness to admit abuse. Choice B, personal belief that abuse is deserved, may be a factor for some individuals but is not as common or impactful as the fear of reprisal or further violence.

4. A successful resolution of the nursing diagnosis Negative Self-Concept (related to unrealistic self-expectations) is when the client can:

• A. report a positive self-concept.
• B. identify negative thoughts.
• C. recognize positive thoughts.
• D. give one positive cue with each negative cue

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'report a positive self-concept.' The problem statement is Negative Self-Concept, so the goal is for the client to achieve a positive self-concept. This involves helping the client recognize their worth and strengths. Choices B, C, and D do not directly address the resolution of Negative Self-Concept. Identifying negative thoughts (B) is a step towards improvement but does not represent a successful resolution. Recognizing positive thoughts (C) is positive but not the primary goal in addressing Negative Self-Concept. 'Give one positive cue with each negative cue' (D) is not as comprehensive as achieving an overall positive self-concept.

5. A 60-year-old widower is hospitalized after complaining of difficulty sleeping, extreme apprehension, shortness of breath, and a sense of impending doom. What is the best response by the nurse?

• A. "You have nothing to worry about. You are in a safe place. Try to relax."?
• B. "Has anything happened recently or in the past that might have triggered these feelings?"?
• C. "We have given you a medication that helps to decrease feelings of anxiety."?
• D. "Take some deep breaths and try to calm down."?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choice B is the best response as it shows empathy, acknowledges the patient's feelings, and opens the door for discussion about potential triggers for anxiety. This approach helps the patient explore the root cause of his anxiety and provides an opportunity for therapeutic communication. Choice A dismisses the patient's feelings and offers false reassurance, which may not address the underlying issue. Choices C and D do not encourage the patient to express his emotions or delve into the reasons behind his anxiety, hindering the therapeutic process.

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