ATI RN
Contemporary Ethical Issues in Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
The novice nurse arrives on the nursing unit, is introduced to the staff, is assigned a preceptor, and is asked to participate in the next staff meeting. This introduction into nursing is appropriately termed:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: socialization. Socialization is the process by which individuals learn and adapt to the values, norms, and behaviors of a particular group, in this case, the nursing profession. In this scenario, the novice nurse is being introduced to the staff, assigned a preceptor, and asked to participate in a staff meeting, all of which are key components of the socialization process in nursing. A: Biculturalism refers to the coexistence of two distinct cultures within one society, which is not applicable in this context. C: Transition is the process of changing from one state to another, which is a broader concept than just the introduction to a new profession. D: "Going native" is a colloquial term that refers to adopting the lifestyle or customs of a foreign culture, which is not relevant to the scenario of a novice nurse being introduced to the nursing profession.
Question 2 of 5
It is important to realize that nurses may seek unionization if: (select all that apply)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Choice C is correct because it highlights a significant issue related to patient safety - medication errors caused by delayed shift reports. This creates a legitimate concern for nurses regarding the effectiveness of communication and ultimately patient care. Seeking unionization could be a way for nurses to address this issue collectively. Summary: - Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on physician coverage rather than nurse concerns. - Choice B is incorrect as it addresses staffing and scheduling but does not directly relate to nurses seeking unionization. - Choice D is incorrect as it describes a collaborative care approach, which does not necessarily indicate a need for unionization among nurses.
Question 3 of 5
When an RN is asked to accept an assignment that he or she may not be qualified to perform, the nurse should:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why Answer D is correct: 1. Ensures patient safety: RN should only accept assignments they are qualified for to provide safe care. 2. Upholds professional standards: Accepting only familiar assignments aligns with nursing scope of practice. 3. Legal and ethical responsibility: RN must prioritize patient well-being over external pressures. 4. Promotes personal growth: RN can seek additional training for unfamiliar assignments. Summary: - A: Incorrect. Accepting based on power dynamics disregards patient safety and professional ethics. - B: Incorrect. Patient safety should be the primary concern over workload. - C: Incorrect. Past handling may not guarantee appropriateness. Focus should be on personal qualification.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assigned to a unit where 95% of all patients required total care. Most days the assistive personnel are able to complete their assignments and provide high-quality care. A patient returning from a procedure was somehow "skipped" when daily baths were performed and requests that her care now be provided. The nurse discovers the bed is rumpled and damp. The RN joins with some other staff to bathe the patient, change the bed, and help make the patient comfortable. These staff members are demonstrating:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: altruism. Altruism is the selfless concern for the wellbeing of others, which is demonstrated by the staff members helping the patient in need without hesitation. In this scenario, the staff members are putting the patient's needs above their own, showing compassion and empathy. This aligns with the principle of altruism in nursing, where caregivers prioritize the welfare of their patients. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Veracity refers to truthfulness and honesty. While these are important traits in nursing, they are not the focus of the staff members' actions in this scenario. C: Autonomy is the right of individuals to make decisions about their own care. In this situation, the patient is not exercising autonomy, but rather relying on the staff for assistance. D: Whistle-blowing involves reporting unethical or illegal behavior within an organization. There is no indication of any wrongdoing that would require whistle-blowing in this scenario.
Question 5 of 5
When the novice nurse asks, "What will happen if this task is not completed," which skill is being demonstrated?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The novice nurse is demonstrating priority setting by asking about the consequences of not completing a task. This skill involves determining the most crucial tasks to be completed first based on their potential impact on patient outcomes. By understanding the implications of task completion, the nurse can effectively prioritize their workload. Delegation involves assigning tasks to others, organization involves arranging tasks in a systematic way, and clinical skills refer to the technical abilities in providing patient care. These skills are not directly demonstrated by the nurse's question about the consequences of task completion.