Which of the following is an example of an environmental factor that could influence decision-making in nursing?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because all the choices (A, B, C) are examples of environmental factors that can influence decision-making in nursing. Personal preferences can affect how a nurse chooses a treatment plan. Ethical considerations impact decisions regarding patient care. The availability of resources, such as staffing or medical supplies, can constrain decision-making. Therefore, considering all these factors collectively (personal preferences, ethical considerations, and availability of resources) is crucial in making informed nursing decisions.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Essential to nursing care. Attending a continuing education class on advanced technology in health care is essential for nurses to stay updated with the latest advancements, improve patient care, and enhance their clinical skills. It helps nurses deliver high-quality care, adapt to changes in healthcare practices, and improve patient outcomes. The other choices are incorrect because continuing education benefits all healthcare professionals, not just nurse managers. It is not unimportant or a waste of time, as it directly impacts the quality of nursing care provided.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Internal standards. Rationale: 1. Internal standards refer to criteria set by an organization based on its own goals and values. 2. Absolute judgment means evaluations are made against these internal standards. 3. By using internal standards, evaluations are consistent and aligned with organizational objectives. 4. External sources (A) and manager's personal opinion (D) are subjective and may not reflect organizational goals. 5. Manager and staff's perceived notion (B) may vary and lack consistency, unlike internal standards. Summary: Internal standards provide a consistent and objective basis for evaluations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. External sources, personal opinions, and perceived notions lack this consistency and alignment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, "Measure the ankle-brachial index." This task involves using a blood pressure cuff and Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in the lower extremities, which is within the scope of practice for UAPs. It is a non-invasive procedure that does not require specialized training. Choice B, "Check for changes in skin pigmentation," involves assessing for potential skin changes related to circulation issues, which requires more in-depth knowledge and interpretation than what UAPs are trained for. Choice C, "Assess for unilateral or bilateral foot drop," involves evaluating muscle strength and nerve function, which requires clinical judgment and knowledge beyond the scope of UAP practice. Choice D, "Ask the patient about symptoms of depression," involves assessing mental health and requires communication skills and training that UAPs do not typically have.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice A is correct: 1. Careful assessment helps in understanding the client's condition and needs. 2. Documenting client status provides evidence of the care provided. 3. It ensures that necessary actions are taken promptly to prevent negligence. 4. Documentation serves as legal protection against false imprisonment accusations. Summary: - Choice B is about data security, not directly related to preventing negligence and false imprisonment. - Choice C focuses on accurate documentation but lacks the emphasis on assessment. - Choice D is vague and does not specifically address the legal aspects of negligence and false imprisonment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ongoing training and education. This is crucial in a QI project as it ensures staff are equipped with necessary skills and knowledge to implement and sustain improvements. Ongoing training fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement, leading to better outcomes. A: Standardized care protocols are important but not the key component. They provide guidelines for care delivery but without ongoing training, staff may struggle to adhere to these protocols effectively. B: Employee satisfaction is important for motivation but does not directly guarantee successful QI projects. Training and education are more crucial for achieving sustainable improvement. D: Financial incentives can be a motivator, but they do not address the root cause of quality issues. Ongoing training is essential for building capacity and expertise within the team.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Create tension among nurses. Collective bargaining involves negotiation between labor unions and employers, which can lead to disagreements and conflicts among nurses over issues such as wages, working conditions, and benefits. This tension is a common concern as it can impact unity and collaboration within the nursing workforce. Summary: B: Reform health care - This is incorrect as collective bargaining focuses on labor relations, not healthcare reform. C: Secure economic security - This is incorrect as securing economic security is one of the goals of collective bargaining, not a concern. D: Unite the nurses - This is incorrect as collective bargaining can sometimes lead to division and tension among nurses rather than uniting them.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Keep the feet close together. This helps maintain a stable base of support, improving balance and reducing the risk of injury. The wider the base of support, the more stable the body is during lifting. Keeping the feet close together also helps distribute the weight evenly and allows for better control over the movement. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: B: Using the back muscles for lifting can lead to strain and injury. It is important to use the legs and core muscles instead. C: Standing close to the cabinet when lifting may cause strain due to limited range of motion. It is better to maintain a comfortable distance. D: Bending at the waist increases the risk of back injury. Instead, it is recommended to bend at the knees and hips while keeping the back straight.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Goal setting theory. This theory emphasizes setting specific, challenging goals to improve performance, focusing on long-range planning rather than immediate rewards. Goals provide direction and motivation, leading to increased effort and persistence. Equity theory (A) focuses on fairness in outcomes and inputs. Development (B) refers to personal growth and learning. Extinction (D) is a behaviorist concept related to the disappearance of a previously learned behavior due to lack of reinforcement.