ATI RN
Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
A group of nurses are meeting to decide how to staff the upcoming holidays. Each of the four members freely expresses thoughts about fair staffing but is willing to listen to other thoughts and reconsider their first recommendations. The nurses are avoiding conflict and supporting professional communication through:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: supportiveness. In this scenario, the nurses are engaging in a collaborative process, listening to each other's perspectives, and being open to reconsidering their initial recommendations. Supportiveness involves actively encouraging others, showing understanding, and fostering a positive and constructive environment. Empathy (A) involves understanding and sharing others' feelings, which is important but not the primary focus in this context. Positiveness (B) is about having a positive attitude, which is beneficial but does not capture the essence of the nurses' behavior. Accommodation (D) involves making concessions, which is not the main theme in this situation where the nurses are aiming for mutual understanding and collaboration.
Question 2 of 5
Which task is appropriate for the RN to delegate to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) provided the delegatee has had experience and training?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because obtaining a sterile urine sample from a patient with a Foley catheter connected to a closed drainage system is a task that can be safely delegated to UAP who have experience and training. Here's the rationale: 1. Task Complexity: This task involves a straightforward procedure that does not require specialized medical knowledge. 2. Training and Experience: UAP can be trained to perform this task under supervision and with specific guidelines. 3. Minimal Risk: When performed correctly, obtaining a sterile urine sample carries minimal risk to the patient. 4. Routine Procedure: This task is a common and routine procedure that UAP can be trained to perform effectively. Other Choices: A: Evaluating the ability of a patient to swallow ice after a gastroscopy involves medical assessment and potential risk of aspiration, which should be done by a licensed healthcare professional. B: Assisting a postoperative hip replacement patient to ambulate for the first time requires monitoring for complications and assessing patient response, which should be done
Question 3 of 5
During orientation, an RN learns that LPN/LVNs in the facility receive additional training to perform some tasks such as hanging continuously infusing intravenous fluids that have no additives. It is important for the RN to understand that:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (B - LPN/LVNs are licensed, and accountability for their own practice rests with each LPN/LVN): 1. LPN/LVNs are licensed professionals, accountable for their own scope of practice as outlined by the state nursing board. 2. Accountability ensures that LPN/LVNs are responsible for their actions and decisions in providing patient care. 3. LPN/LVNs must adhere to the state's nursing practice act and regulations, ensuring safe and competent care delivery. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: The health care facility cannot override the state practice act as licensure requirements are set by the state nursing board. C: UAPs, although important in the care team, do not have the same level of accountability as licensed nurses. D: The nurse practice act and state regulations related to delegation are essential in guiding delegation practices, but they do not necessarily override organization policies.
Question 4 of 5
A registered nurse (RN) is assigned as charge nurse for the first time. She knows to consult the state board of nursing to determine scope of practice for licensed practical nurses (LPN) and unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). She also realizes there are common policies which exist in most state practice acts that include:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because when delegating tasks, the RN must first assess the patient to determine their needs and condition. This assessment is crucial in deciding which tasks can be safely delegated to the LPN or UAP. By assessing the patient, the RN can ensure that the delegated tasks are appropriate, match the competency of the delegatee, and are within the scope of practice for each individual. This step is essential to maintain patient safety and quality of care. Choice A is incorrect because while the RN is accountable for the decision to delegate, both accountability and responsibility rest with the RN, not just the delegatee. Choice B is incorrect because tasks should only be delegated within the scope of practice of the delegatee, not based on the delegatee's personal certainty of competence. Choice C is incorrect as LPNs have a distinct scope of practice that is separate from professional nursing, and they do not practice professional nursing.
Question 5 of 5
Accrediting agencies such as The Joint Commission address staffing by:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because accrediting agencies like The Joint Commission focus on ensuring patients receive satisfactory care through evidence-based practices. They evaluate the quality of care provided rather than specific staffing levels or ratios. Imposing maximum staffing levels (A) can be restrictive and may not account for varying patient needs. Requiring a specific staff mix (B) may not always be feasible or reflective of best practices. Stipulating nurse-patient ratios (C) can be important but may not address the overall quality of care provided to patients. In summary, option D is correct as accrediting agencies prioritize evidence of satisfactory care delivery over rigid staffing requirements.