Nursing Elites

1. What is a major source of stress on the current U.S. healthcare system?

• A. Rising cost of providing healthcare to all citizens
• B. Lack of adequate education for healthcare professionals
• C. Inadequate number of hospital beds across the country
• D. Increasing cost of malpractice insurance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The increasing cost of providing healthcare to all citizens is a major source of stress on the current U.S. healthcare system. This rise in costs impacts various aspects of the system, including accessibility, quality of care, and financial sustainability. It affects healthcare providers, patients, insurance companies, and the government, making it a critical issue that needs to be addressed to ensure a more efficient and effective healthcare system. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although lack of education for healthcare professionals, inadequate number of hospital beds, and increasing malpractice insurance costs can be challenges within the healthcare system, they are not the primary source of stress that affects the system as a whole.

2. How does the high degree of professionalism among nurses impact their willingness to engage in organized strikes?

• A. Nurses often find union activities such as strikes in conflict with the need to serve and protect clients and their profession
• B. Nurses use evidence-based studies that reflect both management and labor views to support participation in unionization
• C. Nurses who strike can be legally punished for abandonment and negligence considered to be professional misconduct
• D. Nurses most often turn to collective bargaining strategies such as strikes to emphasize client's safety initiatives

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The high level of professionalism among nurses, as recognized in Gallup polls, often leads them to perceive organized strikes as conflicting with their duty to care for patients and uphold their professional standards. This conflict of interest can cause nurses to be hesitant or reluctant to participate in strikes. Choice B is incorrect because nurses' decision to engage in strikes is more influenced by professional values and patient care rather than evidence-based studies on management and labor views. Choice C is incorrect because while legal consequences may be a concern, the primary factor influencing nurses' decision on strikes is their professional commitment to patient care. Choice D is incorrect as nurses' focus during strikes is more on advocating for patient safety rather than emphasizing safety initiatives.

3. When caring for a patient who just received a terminal diagnosis and is tearful and frightened, what is the best action to demonstrate caring?

• A. Call the patient's spiritual leader to talk to the patient.
• B. Call the patient's family and ask them to come sit with the patient.
• C. Cry with the patient while sympathizing with their situation.
• D. Sit with the patient and listen to their fears.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In situations where a patient receives a terminal diagnosis and is emotionally distressed, it is essential to provide empathy and support. Sitting with the patient and actively listening to their fears allows the patient to express their emotions and concerns. This action demonstrates genuine care and compassion, showing the patient that their feelings are acknowledged and valued. It creates a therapeutic environment that fosters trust and emotional well-being, helping the patient cope with the distressing news. Calling the patient's spiritual leader (Choice A) may not address the immediate emotional needs of the patient. Calling the patient's family (Choice B) can be comforting but might not directly address the patient's fears. Crying with the patient (Choice C) can blur professional boundaries and may not be as beneficial as actively listening and providing support.

4. When a nurse reads a peer-reviewed nursing journal article recommending a change in caring for a patient with an indwelling urinary catheter, which action demonstrates critical thinking?

• A. Implementing the article's recommendations in caring for a patient with an indwelling urinary catheter
• B. Presenting the journal article to the nurse manager and proposing a revision of the procedure
• C. Seeking additional peer-reviewed articles that corroborate the author's recommendation
• D. Disregarding the article and adhering to the facility's existing procedure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Critical thinking involves evaluating information from various sources. In this scenario, the nurse displays critical thinking by seeking additional peer-reviewed articles that support the author's recommendation. This action ensures that decisions are based on a comprehensive understanding of the topic rather than relying solely on one source. By exploring other peer-reviewed articles, the nurse can validate the proposed change and make informed decisions regarding patient care. Choice A, implementing the article's recommendations, may not encompass a thorough evaluation of the information presented. Choice B, presenting the article to the nurse manager, is a valid step but does not directly involve critical analysis of the information. Choice D, disregarding the article, goes against the essence of critical thinking, which emphasizes the evaluation and consideration of various perspectives.

5. Which statement accurately describes the NFLPN?

• A. It represents both registered nurses (RNs) and LPNs.
• B. It represents LPNs/LVNs only.
• C. It is open to anyone interested in nursing.
• D. It is open to anyone in the healthcare field.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN) is the official membership organization specifically for licensed practical nurses/licensed vocational nurses (LPNs/LVNs). It is not inclusive of registered nurses (RNs) or other healthcare professionals; therefore, only LPNs/LVNs can join this organization. Choice A is incorrect because the NFLPN does not represent registered nurses (RNs). Choices C and D are also incorrect as the NFLPN is a specialized organization for LPNs/LVNs, not open to anyone interested in nursing or anyone in the healthcare field.

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