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. A few weeks after an 82-year-old with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes has been placed on metformin (Glucophage) therapy and taught about appropriate diet and exercise, the home health nurse makes a visit. Which finding by the nurse is most important to discuss with the healthcare provider?

• A. Hemoglobin A1C level is 7.9%.
• B. Last eye exam was 18 months ago.
• C. Glomerular filtration rate is decreased.
• D. Patient has questions about the prescribed diet.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important finding to discuss with the healthcare provider is the decreased glomerular filtration rate. In patients on metformin therapy, monitoring kidney function is crucial as metformin is primarily excreted through the kidneys. A decreased glomerular filtration rate can lead to metformin accumulation in the body, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious adverse effect. The hemoglobin A1C level being 7.9% indicates poor diabetes control but can be addressed through medication adjustments and lifestyle modifications. The patient needing an eye exam after 18 months is important but not as urgent as discussing the decreased glomerular filtration rate. Patient questions about the prescribed diet can be addressed during the visit without the need for immediate healthcare provider intervention.

3. What is the term used for assigning a rating based on an overall impression?

• A. Recency error.
• B. Leniency error.
• C. Absolute judgment.
• D. Halo error.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Halo error.' Halo error occurs when a rating is given based on a general impression rather than specific performance criteria. Choice A, 'Recency error,' refers to rating an employee based on recent events rather than the entire evaluation period. Choice B, 'Leniency error,' is when a manager consistently rates employees higher than they deserve. Choice C, 'Absolute judgment,' involves evaluating based on established standards rather than an overall impression.

4. Which of the following best describes the concept of interprofessional collaboration in healthcare?

• A. The process by which multiple healthcare professionals work together to improve patient outcomes
• B. A method for healthcare professionals to work independently within their scope of practice
• C. The use of standardized protocols to ensure consistent care
• D. A way for healthcare professionals to share patient information electronically

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Interprofessional collaboration in healthcare refers to the coordinated efforts of multiple healthcare professionals working together to enhance patient outcomes. This collaborative approach involves professionals from different disciplines contributing their expertise to provide comprehensive care and improve the overall quality of patient treatment. Choice B is incorrect because interprofessional collaboration emphasizes teamwork and collective efforts rather than working independently. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to standardization of care protocols, not collaboration among professionals. Choice D is incorrect as sharing patient information electronically is a component of information exchange but not the primary focus of interprofessional collaboration.

5. Factors that may contribute to workplace violence in a health care setting include:

• A. Lack of armed security
• B. Continuous loud noises and/or poorly monitored entrances
• C. Poor staff interactions
• D. Tense shoulders and clenched fists

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Continuous loud noises and poorly monitored entrances can contribute to workplace violence by creating a chaotic environment that can escalate tensions. Factors like lack of armed security (choice A) may not be as significant in triggering violence as environmental factors. Poor staff interactions (choice C) can contribute to a negative work culture but may not directly lead to violence. Tense shoulders and clenched fists (choice D) may indicate stress or anger in an individual but are not factors that contribute to workplace violence in general.

Similar Questions