A nurse is reading a journal article about life expectancy and various cultural groups. The article describes statistics, stating that a baby born to a black American couple has a life expectancy lower than that of a baby born to a white American couple. The article goes on to describe the life expectancy as the babies get older. Which finding would the nurse most likely identify as reflecting the life expectancy of the baby born to the black American couple by the seventh decade?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Historically, black Americans have experienced a lower standard of living and less access to health care than their white counterparts, leading to a lower life expectancy. However, by the seventh decade of life, survival rates for black individuals begin to equal that of similarly aged white individuals. Choice B is incorrect as it indicates a higher life expectancy for black individuals, which is not supported by the information provided. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests a drastic decrease in life expectancy for black individuals, which is not in line with the trend described. Choice D is incorrect as it implies a temporary increase in life expectancy for black individuals until age 75, which is not supported by the information that survival rates begin to equal by the seventh decade.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Listening to the life stories of clients is an effective way for nurses to understand the cultural influences that shape their beliefs and practices. By actively listening, nurses can gain insight into the clients' backgrounds, values, and preferences, allowing them to provide more personalized and culturally sensitive care. Choices A, B, and D are not as direct as listening to the life stories of clients. While explaining how cultural backgrounds influence health beliefs and practices is important, directly listening to clients' life stories provides a deeper understanding of their individual cultural influences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of medical-surgical nursing, the priority health assessment for a population of black clients would be monitoring their blood pressure due to a blunted nocturnal response. This is because black individuals have been shown to have a higher prevalence of hypertension compared to white individuals. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and other serious health conditions. By monitoring blood pressure, the nurse can detect and manage hypertension early, thus reducing the risk of associated complications. Option A is incorrect as mandating different lifestyle choices based on race is not appropriate and could perpetuate stereotypes. Health promotion should be individualized and based on evidence-based practices rather than assumptions about life expectancy. Option C is incorrect as examining buccal mucosa for skin color assessment is not a priority health assessment for black individuals. Skin color variations do exist, but they do not significantly impact the accuracy of health assessments. Option D is incorrect as while HIV/AIDS is a serious health concern, monitoring for it should not be the priority health assessment for all black clients. Health assessments should be tailored to individual risk factors and health needs rather than being based solely on race. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of culturally competent care and evidence-based practice in nursing. It emphasizes the need to understand how different populations may have varying health risks and the importance of individualized care based on assessment findings rather than assumptions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Stereotyping the client as stoic and unlikely to complain about pain is incorrect and can lead to inadequate pain management. It is essential for the nurse to assess and address the client's pain regardless of cultural background. Choices A, B, and C are not as critical as they respect the client's autonomy, cultural preferences regarding family visits, and provide relevant background information about the client's immigrant status.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse in the scenario is likely knowledgeable about Middle Eastern culture and values providing culturally competent care to the residents. This inference can be made based on the nurse being well-respected and effective in providing care to this population. Choice A is incorrect because it only focuses on the nurse's knowledge and skills, not specifically about cultural competence. Choice C is incorrect as there is no indication of overcompensation; the nurse is described as effective and well-respected. Choice D is incorrect as there is no evidence to suggest that the nurse is demonstrating ethnic identity or cultural bias, but rather respecting and providing care tailored to the cultural needs of the residents.