A nurse learns of a mass casualty disaster following a known terrorist attack. On arriving at the scene, the nurse knows that:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because in a mass casualty disaster following a terrorist attack, the same ground rules practiced in other settings and during smaller crises will be applicable. This is because the scale and complexity of the disaster require established protocols and procedures to manage the situation effectively. Choice A is incorrect because the response of local hospitals may not necessarily be dictated by the federal government in such situations. Choice C is incorrect because assigning the least experienced nurses to triage patients based on their perceived risk or chances of survival is not ethical or effective. Choice D is incorrect because having multiple incident commanders can lead to confusion and delays in decision-making during a crisis.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: organizational skills. The novice nurse's inability to assess the number of admissions and postoperative patients before requesting assistance indicates a lack of organizational skills. Organizational skills involve prioritizing tasks, managing time efficiently, and planning ahead. In this scenario, the nurse failed to gather essential information before making a decision, leading to inefficiency and potential misallocation of resources. Choice B: communication skills, is not the best answer because the issue is not primarily related to communication breakdown but rather a lack of organizational skills. Choice C: interpersonal skills, is not the best answer because the problem does not stem from the nurse's ability to interact with others but rather from her inability to organize her workload effectively. Choice D: clinical skills, is not the best answer because the situation is more about managing workload and resources rather than clinical knowledge or expertise.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because compulsory licensure means that in order to practice as an RN, the nurse must be licensed as an RN. This is a fundamental requirement for anyone wanting to work as a registered nurse to ensure they meet the necessary qualifications and standards set by the licensing board. Choice A is incorrect as passing a drug screen is not the definition of compulsory licensure. Choice B is incorrect as having a felony conviction may impact eligibility for licensure but is not the definition of compulsory licensure. Choice D is incorrect as acknowledging limitations due to impairment is related to professional conduct but not specifically about licensure requirements.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Preparedness. In this scenario, nurses and community officials are proactively planning and organizing resources to be ready for a disaster. Preparedness involves activities such as training, drills, and stockpiling supplies to ensure an effective response. Relief response (B) occurs during or immediately after a disaster to provide immediate assistance. Recovery (C) focuses on restoring community infrastructure and services post-disaster. Crisis intervention (D) is a short-term, immediate response to individuals in distress. In this case, the focus is on prevention and readiness, fitting the preparedness phase.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice A is correct: 1. Cost-benefit ratio involves weighing the benefits of saying yes against the costs of the time commitment. 2. Professional nurses must consider the impact on patient care, workload, and personal well-being. 3. By evaluating the cost-benefit ratio, nurses can make informed decisions aligned with professional responsibilities and ethical standards. Summary: Choice A is correct because it emphasizes a systematic approach to decision-making based on evaluating the overall impact of the time commitment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not address the essential consideration of weighing costs and benefits in decision-making.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: conduct a cultural self-assessment. This is the first step to ensure cultural competence because it allows the nurse to reflect on their own beliefs, biases, and cultural background, which can impact interactions with culturally diverse clients. By understanding one's own cultural identity, the nurse can better appreciate and respect the beliefs of others. Choice A is incorrect because enrolling in a nursing theories course may provide knowledge but does not address the nurse's own biases. Choice B is also incorrect as immersion in nursing literature may increase knowledge but does not promote self-awareness. Choice C is incorrect as focusing on health assessment variations does not necessarily address cultural sensitivity in interactions. Conducting a cultural self-assessment is essential for building a foundation of cultural competence and respect.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because before addressing any ethical issue, it is vital to first identify and define the issue clearly. This helps in understanding the context and scope of the problem. Without knowing the specific ethical issue at hand, it is impossible to proceed with identifying alternatives, selecting the best option, or justifying the choice of action. Therefore, asking "What is the issue?" is the initial step in the ethical decision-making process. Summary: - Option B is incorrect because identifying alternatives comes after defining the issue. - Option C is incorrect as selecting the best option should be based on a clear understanding of the issue. - Option D is incorrect as justifying actions or inactions should come after determining the ethical problem.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because following up a few days after the interview shows professionalism and eagerness. It allows you to express gratitude, reiterate your interest, and inquire about the next steps. This timing is crucial as it keeps you fresh in the recruiter's mind without being too pushy. Choice A is incorrect because it is more appropriate to send a thank-you letter after the interview, not before. Choice B is incorrect as waiting 2 weeks after not getting the job may be too late for effective follow-up. Choice D is incorrect because you should not assume you got the position without confirmation.