Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The decision to return to school to obtain a bachelor of science degree in nursing can be triggered by various factors, both positive (like a desire for career advancement) and negative (like feeling limited without the degree). This decision reflects critical thinking as it involves a thoughtful evaluation of personal and professional goals, weighing potential benefits and consequences. Therefore, the theme of critical thinking demonstrated in this scenario is that critical thinking is triggered by both positive and negative events. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not specifically address the concept of critical thinking being influenced by positive and negative events as demonstrated in the scenario.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The increased employment options for women have had a significant impact on the current nursing shortage. With more career choices available to women, there is a decrease in the number of individuals pursuing nursing as a profession, contributing to the shortage. This is because women are choosing diverse career paths due to increased opportunities. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. A later age at which women have children and the decrease in the number of women being born are not directly related to the nursing shortage. The overall unemployment rate, while influencing job availability, is not the primary factor driving the shortage of nurses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The principle of confidentiality requires nurses to hold healthcare information and anything patients tell them in the strictest confidence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Instinct. Instinct theory suggests that behaviors are influenced by inherited or innate tendencies, guiding individuals to act in specific ways without conscious reasoning. In the context of staff behavior, instinct can play a significant role in shaping their actions and responses. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Appreciation, control, and esteem are factors that may influence staff behavior, but in this context, the question specifically asks for a characteristic that influences staff to act in a certain way, which aligns more closely with instinctive tendencies rather than external factors like appreciation, control, or esteem.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Coaching. Coaching involves providing guidance and support to help an employee enhance their performance. It focuses on developing skills, addressing weaknesses, and achieving professional growth. Mentoring (choice C) involves guiding and nurturing a less experienced individual. Peer reviewing (choice D) is when colleagues evaluate the performance of their peers. Disciplining (choice B) refers to taking corrective actions in response to policy violations or performance issues.