ATI RN
Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 9
An RN recently relocated to another region of the country and immediately assumed the role of charge nurse. When determining the appropriate person to whom to delegate, the RN knows that:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. When delegating tasks to an LPN/LVN, the RN must review the state's nurse practice act because each state defines the role and scope of practice of the LPN/LVN. This is crucial as the LPN/LVN scope of practice can vary significantly from state to state. By reviewing the nurse practice act, the RN ensures that the tasks being delegated fall within the legal scope of practice for the LPN/LVN in that specific state, promoting safe and effective patient care. Choice A is incorrect because the role of the LPN/LVN can differ between states. Choice B is incorrect because LPN/LVNs cannot perform all duties of an RN, and additional training does not change their scope of practice. Choice D is incorrect because the Joint Commission does not establish roles for LPN/LVNs; it focuses on accreditation standards for healthcare organizations.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse is seeking to become culturally competent in regard to obtaining information during health history and when performing physical diagnosis. The nurse is aware that which biologic variation is found in all of the following ethnicities: blacks, Asians, Hispanics, and American Indians?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sickle cell anemia. This genetic disorder is found in individuals of African, Asian, Hispanic, and American Indian descent. Sickle cell anemia is caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin gene, leading to the production of abnormal hemoglobin. This condition is more prevalent in these ethnic groups due to historical reasons and natural selection against malaria. A: Mongolian spots are common in Asian infants but not in all the mentioned ethnicities. C: Lactose intolerance is more common in individuals of African, Asian, and Hispanic descent but not specifically in American Indians. D: Thalassemia is more prevalent in individuals of Mediterranean, African, and Southeast Asian descent, not in all the mentioned ethnicities.
Question 3 of 9
Which functions can be delegated only to another RN with appropriate experience and training? (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because nursing judgment related to withholding medication based on vital signs requires critical thinking, clinical knowledge, and experience. This decision-making process involves assessing the patient's condition, interpreting vital signs, and determining if medication should be given or withheld to ensure patient safety. This function cannot be delegated to someone without the appropriate training and expertise. A: Assessment of skin integrity on the third day of hospitalization can be delegated to other healthcare team members such as LPNs or nursing assistants, as long as they have been trained and deemed competent. B: Evaluation of patient teaching related to turn, cough, and deep breathing exercises can be delegated to other healthcare team members, as long as they have the appropriate training and supervision. D: The statement that RNs do not delegate to other RNs is incorrect. RNs can delegate certain tasks to other RNs based on their scope of practice and level of experience. It is not limited to LPNs or unlicensed assistive personnel.
Question 4 of 9
Despite the presence of safety aids such as handrails in the bathrooms at an assisted living facility, the number of fractures due to unsteady ambulation upon arising from the bed and when attempting to perform activities of daily living has increased. Which complementary alternative medicine (CAM) would be an effective intervention for this population?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Tai chi is the correct answer because it focuses on improving balance, strength, and flexibility, which are essential for preventing falls in the elderly. Tai chi's slow, controlled movements can help improve stability and reduce the risk of fractures. Summary: A (Yoga) focuses more on flexibility and relaxation, not specifically on balance and stability. B (Acupuncture) is not a physical activity and does not directly address the issue of unsteady ambulation. D (Magnet therapy) lacks scientific evidence to support its effectiveness in improving balance and preventing falls.
Question 5 of 9
Although a hospital reversed all charges when a client was the victim of wrong site surgery, the court awarded the client $5 million. The client was able to return to work in 6 weeks and had no permanent damages. This monetary compensation is termed:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant for their wrongful actions. In this case, the hospital's negligence in performing wrong site surgery resulted in harm to the client, even though the hospital reversed the charges. The court awarded $5 million to punish the hospital for their negligence, as the client suffered emotional distress and the potential risk of harm. The other choices are incorrect because: A: res ipsa loquitur is a legal doctrine used to shift the burden of proof from the plaintiff to the defendant in cases where the negligence is obvious. C: vicarious liability holds an employer responsible for the actions of their employees, which is not directly applicable in this scenario. D: immunity refers to protection from legal liability, which is not relevant in a case where the court awarded monetary compensation.
Question 6 of 9
Which nursing model is referred to as the "class without walls"?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Articulation. This nursing model is referred to as the "class without walls" because it focuses on seamless academic progression and collaboration between educational institutions. Articulation promotes a smooth transition of nursing students from one level of education to another, eliminating barriers and creating a cohesive learning experience. The other choices (B, C, D) do not specifically emphasize the concept of breaking down walls or barriers in education like the Articulation model does.
Question 7 of 9
The mentor states, "Prevention was the focus of nursing when I graduated. We stressed preventive health measures such as smoking cessation education to reduce preventable diseases and prevention to reduce the spread of infectious disease such as AIDS." The mentor asks, "What do you think the challenges will be for nurses graduating now? The correct response would be: (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: The correct answer is A because nurses now face challenges in coordinating care for a more diverse aging population. This is due to the increasing complexity of health issues and values among this demographic. Step 2: As the aging population grows, nurses must be equipped to address the unique needs and preferences of diverse individuals, which requires a deep understanding of cultural, social, and health-related factors. Step 3: Nurses need to adapt their care delivery strategies to provide patient-centered care that considers the individual's values, beliefs, and preferences. This includes coordinating care across different healthcare settings and disciplines to ensure holistic and effective care. Summary: Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific challenges faced by nurses graduating now, which primarily revolve around managing the complexities of caring for a diverse aging population with varying health values.
Question 8 of 9
A qualitative researcher reviews data collected with a grief support group to develop a theory of how widows and widowers mourn. The researcher is using which qualitative research design?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Grounded theory is the correct answer because it involves developing a theory based on analyzing data collected from participants. In this case, the researcher is reviewing data from a grief support group to identify patterns and themes, ultimately leading to the development of a theory on how widows and widowers mourn. Phenomenology focuses on understanding individuals' lived experiences, not developing theories. Case study involves an in-depth analysis of a single case, not suitable for developing a theory. Hypothesis generation is part of quantitative research, not qualitative research design.
Question 9 of 9
One difference between a leader and a manager is that a:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Step 1: A manager focuses on coordinating resources, such as people, time, and materials, to achieve organizational goals. Step 2: Coordinating resources is a key responsibility of a manager, as it involves planning, organizing, and controlling to ensure efficient operations. Step 3: Leaders, on the other hand, focus on setting a vision, inspiring and motivating others to achieve goals. Step 4: While both leaders and managers play crucial roles, the distinction lies in their primary focus and responsibilities. Step 5: Therefore, the correct answer is C, as it accurately reflects the key difference between a leader and a manager.