Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following strategies is most effective for reducing medication errors on a nursing unit?

• A. Increasing the nurse-to-patient ratio
• B. Providing ongoing education on safe medication practices
• C. Using barcoding technology for medication administration
• D. Increasing the use of PRN medications

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most effective strategy for reducing medication errors on a nursing unit is using barcoding technology for medication administration. Barcoding technology helps to ensure the right medication is given to the right patient in the right dose at the right time. Increasing the nurse-to-patient ratio (choice A) may help in preventing errors due to workload, but it may not address the root cause of medication errors. Providing ongoing education (choice B) is important but may not be as effective as implementing technology to directly prevent errors during administration. Increasing the use of PRN medications (choice D) can actually increase the risk of errors if not carefully monitored and controlled.

2. A new nurse is thinking about the ways she can demonstrate leadership in her position. Which of the following is true about leadership?

• A. Leadership is a component of nursing practice.
• B. Leadership requires a position of oversight.
• C. Leadership depends on the actions of others.
• D. Only experienced nurses can demonstrate leadership.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Leadership is a component of nursing practice.' Leadership is an essential aspect of nursing practice that involves inspiring, guiding, and influencing others to achieve common goals. Choice B is incorrect because leadership can be demonstrated at various levels within an organization, not just positions of oversight. Choice C is incorrect as leadership involves taking initiative and guiding others, rather than depending solely on the actions of others. Choice D is incorrect as leadership qualities can be demonstrated by individuals at all levels of experience, not exclusively by experienced nurses.

3. Which of the following best describes decertification?

• A. Encourage union affiliation
• B. Change union affiliation
• C. Reward union affiliation
• D. Empower union affiliation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decertification is the process of removing or changing union affiliation. Choosing option B, 'Change union affiliation,' correctly reflects this definition. Option A, 'Encourage union affiliation,' is incorrect as decertification is not about promoting union membership but rather altering it. Option C, 'Reward union affiliation,' is incorrect as decertification does not involve rewarding union membership. Option D, 'Empower union affiliation,' is incorrect as decertification does not empower union membership but rather modifies or eliminates it.

4. Construction is occurring in the Emergency Department, with equipment and sharp items being used by the contractors. As the charge nurse, you are concerned that agitated patients might use the equipment as weapons and you meet with staff to: (EXCEPT)

• A. Notify the nursing supervisor.
• B. Notify security.
• C. Have them check patients to verify safety.
• D. Ask construction workers to be responsible.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When construction is ongoing in a healthcare setting, it is essential to address safety concerns promptly. While it is crucial to notify the nursing supervisor and security to manage potential risks, having staff check patients for safety is also a valid precautionary measure. However, asking construction workers to be responsible is not a proper action to address the safety concerns posed by the equipment. Construction workers are professionals responsible for their tasks; it is the healthcare facility's responsibility to ensure patient and staff safety in such situations.

5. Why is increasing the use of advanced practice nurses encouraged?

• A. A 2010 Institute of Medicine report recommended nurses practice to the full extent of their education.
• B. Advanced practice nurses act as an extension of physicians.
• C. The National League for Nursing advocates for the master of science in nursing (MSN) as the terminal degree for nurse practitioners.
• D. Advanced practice nurses lack the skills to diagnose.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the 2010 Institute of Medicine report recommended that nurses practice to the full extent of their education, which includes utilizing advanced practice nurses. This supports the efficient delivery of healthcare services by leveraging the expertise and skills of advanced practice nurses. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the role of advanced practice nurses rather than providing a reason for increasing their use. Choice C is unrelated to the encouragement of increasing the use of advanced practice nurses as it focuses on the terminal degree for nurse practitioners. Choice D is incorrect as advanced practice nurses do possess the skills necessary to diagnose and provide advanced care, so the statement that they lack diagnostic skills is inaccurate.

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