Amy Jones, a high school senior, wants to become a geriatric nurse practitioner. What nursing degree will she need to attain this goal?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: master's degree. To become a geriatric nurse practitioner, Amy will need to attain a master's degree in nursing. This advanced degree provides the specialized knowledge and skills required to work as a nurse practitioner specializing in geriatric care. A licensed practical nurse (A) and an associate degree (B) are not sufficient for this specialized role. While a baccalaureate degree (C) is a higher level of education than an associate degree, it is still not advanced enough to become a nurse practitioner specializing in geriatrics.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step 1: Risk factors are characteristics or conditions that increase the likelihood of illness or injury. Step 2: When there is an increase in risk factors, the probability of developing an illness or injury also increases. Step 3: Therefore, statement C, "An increase in risk factors increases the possibility of illness," is accurate. Step 4: Choice A is incorrect because risk factors are indeed related to the person or event. Step 5: Choice B is incorrect as not all risk factors are modifiable; some are genetic or environmental. Step 6: Choice D is also incorrect as a family history of breast cancer is a non-modifiable risk factor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because Maslow's theory of hierarchy of needs can guide nurses in assessing and prioritizing patients' needs during the nursing process. By understanding that basic physiological needs must be met before addressing higher-level needs, nurses can provide holistic care. Choice B is incorrect because Maslow's theory focuses on fundamental human needs, not specifically healthcare needs. Choice C is incorrect as the theory can be applied to all individuals, regardless of age. Choice D is incorrect because Maslow's theory is relevant to all patients, not just those who are ill.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: the institutional ethics committee. The ethics committee is the appropriate source for handling ethical dilemmas as they are trained to provide guidance on complex ethical issues in healthcare settings. They can review the situation, consider various perspectives, and provide recommendations based on ethical principles and standards. In this case, the nurse can consult the ethics committee to evaluate the practice of ordering unnecessary tests and determine the most ethical course of action. Summary of other choices: A: the patient's family - While the family may have valuable input, they may not have the expertise to resolve ethical dilemmas in healthcare settings. B: the admitting physician - The physician may have limited perspective and may not be impartial in making decisions regarding routine testing. C: the nurse in charge of the unit - The nurse may have insights but may not have the authority or expertise to handle complex ethical dilemmas effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: competent practice. This is the nurse's best legal safeguard because it ensures that the nurse is providing care within their scope of practice, following standards of care, and adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. Competent practice minimizes the risk of errors, negligence, and malpractice lawsuits. Collective bargaining (A) pertains to labor negotiations, not legal safeguards. Written or implied contracts (B) are important but do not solely protect the nurse legally. Patient education (D) is crucial but not the nurse's primary legal safeguard.