A nurse becomes actively involved in the development of a health policy in the community. Which of the following describes why this is an important role of the nurse?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because government and policy decisions greatly influence healthcare delivery, funding, and regulations, thus impacting nursing practice. Nurses advocating for policies that promote health equity and access can improve population health outcomes. Choice B is incorrect as nursing values are based on ethical principles and professional standards, not solely on historical figures like Florence Nightingale. Choice D is incorrect as political science and nursing are separate disciplines, although understanding policy and political processes can benefit nursing advocacy efforts. Choice C is omitted and cannot be evaluated.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: A decreased ability of states to spend money on programming. Block grants provide states with a fixed amount of funding for a specific purpose, limiting their flexibility in allocating funds. This can lead to a decreased ability for states to spend money on various programs as they are restricted by the conditions of the block grant. This effect is seen as a drawback by some as it reduces the autonomy of states in decision-making. Choice A is incorrect because block grants do not necessarily lead to a reduction in federal expenditures. Choice B is incomplete and does not provide a coherent explanation. Choice D is incorrect because block grants do not guarantee the continuation of programs, especially if the effectiveness of the programs is not maintained or if funding is insufficient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Judicial. The nurse would be looking at the judicial branch of government because it is responsible for interpreting and applying the law, including constitutional rights such as the right to grant abortions. The judicial branch ensures that laws are in line with the constitution and resolves legal disputes. The executive branch (A) enforces laws, the legislative branch (B) creates laws, and the term "Federal" (D) is not a branch of government but refers to the system of government in the United States.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Direct services. In this scenario, the health department is directly providing a service (hypertension screening) to individuals. Direct services involve the actual delivery of healthcare services to individuals or communities. B: Financing refers to how healthcare services are paid for, not directly providing the service. C: Information involves gathering and disseminating health-related data, not directly providing a service. D: Policy setting involves developing rules and regulations, not directly providing a service. In summary, the health department offering hypertension screenings falls under the category of direct services as they are directly providing a health service to individuals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step 1: Identify the target population - women and children. Step 2: Evaluate each option. Step 3: B is correct as the Public Protection of Maternity and Infancy program specifically focuses on providing health services for women and children. Step 4: A (Sheppard-Towner Act) mainly focused on maternal and child health but is not the most direct provision for these services. Step 5: C (EPSDT program) focuses on preventive healthcare for children but not specifically for women. Step 6: D (WIC program) focuses on nutrition support for women, infants, and children, not comprehensive health services.