Nursing Elites

1. 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.

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. A client experiences difficulty breathing after the change of shift. The nurse on duty discovers that the IVFs were infusing at a rate 10 times the calculated normal. After notifying the physician and correcting the rate, what should be the next step in the client's care?

• A. Notify family
• B. Discipline the previous nurse
• C. Complete an incident report
• D. Obtain legal consultation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct next step in the client's care after notifying the physician and correcting the rate of IVFs is to complete an incident report. This report is essential for documenting the adverse event, analyzing the cause, and implementing preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future. Notifying the family, disciplining the previous nurse, and obtaining legal consultation are not immediate priorities in this situation. Family notification may follow the incident report, disciplining the previous nurse is a separate administrative process, and legal consultation is usually not required for a medical error corrected promptly.

4. Which level in Maslow's hierarchy is rarely met?

• A. Esteem
• B. Safety
• C. Self-actualization
• D. Belongingness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Self-actualization.' Self-actualization, the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy, involves developing one's full potential and achieving personal growth. It is considered rarely met because it requires a deep understanding of oneself, a strong sense of purpose, and the ability to pursue intrinsic goals. Esteem (choice A) focuses on respect, recognition, and self-esteem, which are more commonly achieved than self-actualization. Safety (choice B) and belongingness (choice D) are also more commonly attained as they relate to basic needs for security and social connections, which are essential for overall well-being.

5. An RN�s client with terminal pancreatic cancer asks questions about a do not resuscitate order. Which of the following statements should be included in the RN�s teaching to the client?

• A. When a heart ceases to beat, the client is pronounced clinically dead.
• B. Physicians must write do not resuscitate (DNR) orders.
• C. A DNR order can be written after the health-care provider has discussed it with the client and family.
• D. A DNR requires a court decision.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Clients may request a DNR order, but they need to be fully informed of all the ramifications of the decision. Therefore, the health-care provider will consult with the client and family before the order is written.

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