ATI RN
Public Health Policy Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is employed by the state public health department. Which activity would she most likely complete?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: One of the state health care functions is assessment of health needs based on statewide data collection. This could be done by monitoring the incidence of influenza in the state. Setting up a flu shot clinic would most likely be done at the local level, while lobbying for health care reform would most likely be done at the federal level. Serving as a volunteer for a campaign may be something a nurse would do, but would not be specifically related to employment by the state public health department.
Question 2 of 5
Which statement best describes why nurses are not more effective in creating political change?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Nurses know how to communicate, collaborate, negotiate, and serve as leaders who can make themselves heard. However, the various nursing subgroups do not agree on public policies.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is employed by the state nursing association to serve as a lobbyist. Which would be the most crucial task to achieve?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An individual who establishes a reputation as a reliable and accurate resource as a lobbyist has substantial influence. Certainly, it is also useful to convince colleagues to join nursing organizations and write legislators or contribute to campaigns of legislators supportive of nursing goals. Legislators rely on lobbyists to educate them on issues. The official must trust the lobbyists to give accurate (though predictably biased) information, which is timely and up to date.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is unable to be actively involved in attending meetings at the state level. Which action would be most useful for the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Grassroots cooperation can influence decisions. A high number of communications from individual constituents via email, telephone, or postal mail have great influence.
Question 5 of 5
Which statement best describes why nurses should contribute whenever possible to their state nursing association political action committee (PAC)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Because PACs are a reality of political life, nurses need to recognize their power and support those that are committed to electing candidates sympathetic to health care issues. The contribution of money will support the current nursing practice initiatives which will change as nursing practice changes. These contributions will most likely not have any relationship to a future political appointment. Legislative votes are influenced by a variety of factors and are not limited only to money.