Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following scenarios represents nursing malpractice?

• A. The nurse administers penicillin to a patient with a documented history of allergy to the drug. The patient experiences an allergic reaction and suffers cerebral damage due to anoxia.
• B. The nurse applies a hot water bottle or a heating pad to the abdomen of a patient with abdominal cramping.
• C. The nurse assists a patient out of bed with the bed locked in position; the patient slips and fractures his right humerus.
• D. The nurse administers the wrong medication to a patient, resulting in vomiting. This error is documented and reported to the physician and the nursing supervisor.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Administering a drug to a patient with a known allergy, leading to severe harm such as an allergic reaction causing cerebral damage due to anoxia, constitutes nursing malpractice. In this scenario, the nurse failed to adhere to the standard of care by administering a medication that the patient was allergic to, resulting in serious harm, which is a clear example of malpractice in nursing.

2. Which of the following is not a cause of tachycardia?

• A. Fever
• B. Exercise
• C. Sympathetic nervous system stimulation
• D. Parasympathetic nervous system stimulation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Tachycardia is an increased heart rate, and it can be caused by various factors such as fever, exercise, and sympathetic nervous system stimulation, all of which tend to increase heart rate. However, parasympathetic nervous system stimulation typically slows the heart rate, making it the exception among the choices provided. Thus, parasympathetic nervous system stimulation is not a cause of tachycardia.

3. A healthcare professional is preparing to measure an infant's temperature. Which of the following actions should the healthcare professional take?

• A. Place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla
• B. Pull the pinna of the infant's ear forward before inserting the probe
• C. Insert the probe 3.8 cm (1.5in) into the infant's rectum
• D. Insert the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When measuring an infant's temperature, the most appropriate and non-invasive method is to place the tip of the thermometer under the center of the infant's axilla (armpit). This method is safe, quick, and comfortable for the infant. Inserting the probe into the rectum is invasive and not recommended for routine temperature measurement in infants. Inserting the thermometer in front of the infant's tongue is not a reliable method for measuring temperature. Pulling the pinna of the ear forward is a technique used for adults, not infants.

4. What is the most common cause of dementia among elderly persons?

• A. Parkinson’s disease
• B. Multiple sclerosis
• C. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
• D. Alzheimer’s disease

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among elderly persons. It is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. While Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are serious conditions, they are not typically associated with dementia in the same way Alzheimer’s disease is. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

5. Which of the following principles of primary nursing has proven most satisfying to the patient and nurse?

• A. Continuity of patient care promotes efficient and cost-effective nursing care.
• B. Autonomy and authority for planning are best delegated to a nurse who knows the patient well.
• C. Accountability is clearest when one nurse is responsible for the overall plan and its implementation.
• D. The holistic approach provides for a therapeutic relationship, continuity, and efficient nursing care.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The holistic approach, encompassing a therapeutic relationship, continuity, and efficient nursing care, is the most satisfying principle of primary nursing. This approach considers the patient as a whole, taking into account physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects, which enhances the nurse-patient relationship and promotes comprehensive care. It emphasizes individualized care delivery, continuity of care, and an integrated approach, leading to improved patient satisfaction and nurse fulfillment.

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