ATI RN
Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 9
A nurse develops a new nursing theory related to stress and viability. The nurse determines the theory accounts for historical events in which soldiers suffering from the stress of inadequate clothing to protect them from the cold and lack of correspondence from home had an increased mortality related to gunshot wounds. The theory will predict gunshot victims' need for proper clothing and letters from significant others as they serve in Iraq. Which criterion for theory acceptance is being validated?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Accuracy. The nurse's theory is being validated based on its ability to accurately predict the need for proper clothing and letters from significant others for soldiers serving in Iraq. This criterion is essential for theory acceptance as it demonstrates the theory's ability to make accurate predictions based on historical events. Inclusiveness (A) refers to the theory's ability to encompass a wide range of phenomena, which is not explicitly demonstrated in this scenario. Consistency (B) refers to the theory's internal coherence and agreement with existing knowledge, which is not the focus of the nurse's validation process in this case. Simplicity (D) refers to the theory's clarity and parsimony, which is not the primary criterion being validated here. In summary, accuracy is the most relevant criterion being validated in this scenario as the nurse's theory is being assessed based on its predictive accuracy in relation to the soldiers' needs in Iraq.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse asks, "What is meant by 'internal' customers?" The correct response is: (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: X-ray technicians. Internal customers refer to individuals or departments within the same organization who rely on each other's services to fulfill their roles effectively. X-ray technicians work within the healthcare facility and depend on other staff like nurses for patient care coordination. Insurance companies (A) and accreditors (B) are external entities. Clinical pharmacists (D) are also internal, but X-ray technicians have a direct service-dependency relationship with nurses in healthcare settings, making them the most relevant internal customers in this context.
Question 3 of 9
A nurse manager is mentoring a novice nurse manager in determining staffing needs. The mentor explains, "We must determine the acuity level of the patient by:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because quantifying the amount and intensity of care required is essential to determine staffing needs based on patient acuity. This involves assessing the complexity and severity of patients' conditions, which directly impacts the level of care needed. Patient satisfaction (A) does not provide objective data on acuity. Examining skill mix (C) is important but not the primary factor in determining acuity. Hospital days (D) reflect length of stay, not acuity level.
Question 4 of 9
The emergency response team responded to a terrorist attack where hundreds of people died following symptoms of chest tightness, palpations, seizures, and finally paralysis. A colorless odorless liquid known as Sarin (GB) was the agent, which is primarily inhaled with limited exposure through the skin. The concentration of Sarin has not been measured. What level is the minimum level of personal protection and safety equipment (PPE) that would be needed?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Level B. In a scenario involving Sarin, a highly toxic nerve agent primarily inhaled, Level B protective equipment is required. Level B PPE includes a chemical-resistant suit, chemical-resistant gloves, chemical-resistant boots, and a full-face respirator with appropriate filter cartridges. The choice of Level B is based on the fact that Sarin is primarily inhaled, indicating the need for respiratory protection. Level A is typically used for the highest level of protection, including protection against highly toxic chemicals in both the air and on the skin, which is not necessary in this scenario. Level C and D do not provide adequate protection against a highly toxic chemical like Sarin.
Question 5 of 9
A group of graduates were just notified that they had successfully passed the licensure examination. During the orientation process at the hospital, one asks, "I am looking at my license, but I don't really know the duties performed by the board of nursing." The staff development nurse explains that the board of nursing: (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: grants nursing licensure. The board of nursing is responsible for overseeing the licensure process for nurses, ensuring that they meet the necessary qualifications to practice. They review applications, conduct background checks, and issue licenses to qualified individuals. This is a fundamental duty of the board of nursing, as it regulates the nursing profession and ensures public safety. Explanation for why other choices are incorrect: B: Constructs the licensure examination - While the board of nursing may have input in the development of the licensure examination, their primary role is not the construction of the exam itself. C: Assigns disciplinary action when the nurse acts in a manner that results in harm to a patient - While the board of nursing does have the authority to investigate and take disciplinary action against nurses who violate the nursing practice act, this is not their primary function. D: Members are appointed - This choice is irrelevant to the duties performed by the board of nursing and does not directly relate to their responsibilities in granting
Question 6 of 9
The crisis communication officer may first inform the public or health care facility of a disaster or an act of terrorism. This representative has the responsibility to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the crisis communication officer's primary responsibility is to provide clear and factual information about the event within the facility and potentially to the news media. This helps to ensure transparency, maintain credibility, and prevent misinformation. Choice A is incorrect as containing facts within the administration group limits transparency. Choice B is incorrect as inciting panic is counterproductive. Choice D is incorrect as withholding information until confirmed by state and federal agencies may lead to unnecessary delays in communication.
Question 7 of 9
A patient with complicated diabetes is scheduled for a below the knee amputation at 7 AM. The surgical team adheres to the 2012 National Patient Safety Goals by implementing which protocols? (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it aligns with the 2012 National Patient Safety Goals, specifically the goal of improving the accuracy of patient identification. By asking the patient to confirm their name, type of surgery, and limb to be removed, the surgical team is ensuring that they have the correct patient and are performing the correct procedure. This protocol helps prevent errors and ensures patient safety. Option B is incorrect because asking for licensure and certification does not directly relate to patient safety or accurate patient identification. Option C is incorrect because relying solely on chart numbers or hospital numbers may not be sufficient to prevent errors in patient identification. Option D is incorrect because while marking the procedure site is important, relying solely on the patient to verify the correct site may not be as effective as having the healthcare team confirm this information with the patient.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse is approached to sign a union authorization card. If signed, the card:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for Answer A: Signing a union authorization card authorizes the union to serve as the nurse's legal representative in labor negotiations and other matters. By signing, the nurse is indicating consent for the union to act on their behalf. This is a crucial step in the unionization process. Summary of Other Choices: B: Requesting additional information about collective bargaining does not require signing a union authorization card. C: Sharing information about grievances does not necessarily require signing a union authorization card. D: Deducting union dues from pay is a separate process that typically requires a separate authorization form, not the union authorization card.
Question 9 of 9
A patient is admitted for a hip replacement complicated by uncontrolled diabetes and early dementiThe nurse coordinates referrals to an endocrinologist to establish an insulin protocol and organizes out-patient physical therapy in an Alzheimer's assisted living facility upon discharge. The role of this nurse is the:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice C (case manager) is correct: 1. A case manager coordinates referrals and services for patients with complex needs, such as this patient with diabetes and dementia. 2. In this scenario, the nurse is coordinating referrals to an endocrinologist and organizing physical therapy, which aligns with the role of a case manager. 3. Case managers ensure continuity of care and facilitate communication between different healthcare providers. 4. The nurse's role in organizing follow-up care and services for the patient falls under the responsibilities of a case manager. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: A: Informatics specialist - This role focuses on managing health information systems, not coordinating referrals and services for patients. B: Educator - While education may be a component of the nurse's role, the primary focus in this scenario is on coordinating referrals and services, which is more in line with a case manager's responsibilities. D: Quality manager - Quality managers focus on ensuring healthcare services meet quality standards