A physician complains to administration that the nurse working last evening is unethical, based on observing the nurse educate the patient about a new medication ordered. The physician demanded the nurse be reprimanded and reminded that only physicians have the educational background to teach patients about new medications. Which comment and action by the administrator would be most effective in changing nurse-physician relationships in this instance?

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Ethics & Issues in Contemporary Nursing Questions

Question 1 of 5

A physician complains to administration that the nurse working last evening is unethical, based on observing the nurse educate the patient about a new medication ordered. The physician demanded the nurse be reprimanded and reminded that only physicians have the educational background to teach patients about new medications. Which comment and action by the administrator would be most effective in changing nurse-physician relationships in this instance?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: The administrator acknowledges the physician's concern to maintain a professional relationship. Step 2: The administrator educates the physician that patient education on medications falls within the nurse's scope of practice. Step 3: The administrator addresses the nurse and physician to ensure both are informed of the resolution. Step 4: This approach promotes mutual understanding and respect between nurse and physician. Summary: Option C is the correct answer as it acknowledges the physician's concern, educates on scope of practice, and fosters communication between both parties. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they either punish the nurse unjustly, fail to educate the physician, or involve unrelated parties in the decision-making process.

Question 2 of 5

The practice of nurses, nursing students, and faculty is affected by demographic changes due to:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: increasing numbers of obese children and adults. This demographic change directly impacts the practice of nurses by requiring specialized care and interventions for obesity-related health issues. Nurses need to be equipped to address the unique needs of obese patients. A is incorrect because the growing percentage of adults ages 50 to 55 years does not necessarily impact nursing practice significantly. C is incorrect as changes in family structure do not directly affect nursing care. D is incorrect because social programs alone cannot eliminate poverty entirely and poverty remains a significant factor affecting healthcare access and outcomes.

Question 3 of 5

Which trend is an effect of the nursing shortage on nursing education?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the nursing shortage has led to a situation where students may be assigned to preceptors who have not yet developed expertise in the field of interest. This is a direct effect of the shortage as experienced and qualified nurses may not always be available to mentor students. This can impact the quality of education and training students receive, potentially hindering their learning and skill development. Options A, B, and C are incorrect: A: While it is true that devoted qualified nurses may be providing bedside nursing due to the complexity of care required, this does not directly relate to the effect of the nursing shortage on nursing education. B: The increase in the number of applicants and limited enrollment due to financial reasons is a separate issue from the shortage's impact on nursing education. C: The increase in nurses entering graduate school does not necessarily result in a lower faculty/student ratio for nursing students and is not a direct effect of the nursing shortage on nursing education.

Question 4 of 5

A nursing student scores 95% on the written examination for the adult health course. To be successful in this course, this same student must then perform an indwelling catheter insertion and wound care in a simulated environment meeting core competencies. The student asks, "What are core competencies?" The nursing instructor replies, "Core competencies are:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: those skills necessary for safe, competent nursing practice. Core competencies refer to the essential skills and knowledge required for safe and competent nursing practice. In the scenario provided, the nursing student needs to demonstrate proficiency in indwelling catheter insertion and wound care to meet these core competencies. These skills are crucial for providing quality patient care and ensuring patient safety. Choice A is incorrect because core competencies are not about reducing attrition but rather about ensuring students possess the necessary skills for nursing practice. Choice C is incorrect as core competencies focus on skills required for practice, not on educational remediation. Choice D is incorrect because core competencies are not about improving reading and math skills but about the specific nursing skills needed for practice.

Question 5 of 5

A person interested in employment in the health care sector has less than 1 year to pursue his or her education and wants to focus on functional aspects of patient care. He/she desires to work in a long-term facility. Which type of nursing program should this person request information about?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: 1. An associate degree in nursing (ADN) is a 2-year program, making it suitable for someone with less than 1 year to pursue education. 2. ADN programs focus on the functional aspects of patient care, aligning with the person's interest. 3. Working in a long-term care facility typically does not require a BSN or MSN. 4. LPN programs are shorter but have a different scope of practice than what the person desires.

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