Which of the following statements is true regarding nursing ethics?
- A. Nursing ethics focus on the organizational level at the workplace.
- B. Nursing ethics focus on the duties and rules of behavior for professional nurses.
- C. Nursing ethics focus on the moral character of nurses.
- D. Nursing ethics focus on the experiences and needs of nurses.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because nursing ethics primarily concern the ethical principles, duties, and rules of behavior that guide professional nurses in their practice. This includes aspects such as patient confidentiality, informed consent, and beneficence.
A is incorrect because nursing ethics are not limited to the organizational level but extend to individual actions within the profession.
C is incorrect as while moral character is important, nursing ethics are more about professional responsibilities and conduct.
D is incorrect because while the experiences and needs of nurses are important, nursing ethics are primarily about how nurses interact with patients, families, and colleagues.
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Professionalism has historically been difficult to define. Early definitions of professionalism included which of the following characteristics?
- A. Expertise
- B. Empathy
- C. Ethical and moral values
- D. Honesty
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Expertise. Professionalism is often associated with possessing a high level of expertise or specialized knowledge in a particular field. This expertise allows professionals to perform their duties effectively and competently. Early definitions of professionalism emphasized the importance of possessing the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in one's profession.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while empathy, ethical and moral values, and honesty are important characteristics of professionalism, they are not the defining factors. Empathy, ethics, and honesty are crucial components of professional behavior, but without expertise, a professional may not be able to effectively fulfill their responsibilities in their chosen field.
When a nurse observes a fellow nurse preparing an incorrect dose of medication, what is the best action to take?
- A. Ignore the error
- B. Administer the medication anyway
- C. Correct the error without informing the nurse
- D. Report the error to the supervisor immediately
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Report the error to the supervisor immediately. This action prioritizes patient safety and prevents harm. It follows ethical guidelines by promoting transparency and accountability. Reporting the error also upholds professional standards and fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Ignoring the error (A) risks patient harm. Administering the medication anyway (B) compromises patient safety. Correcting the error without informing the nurse (C) overlooks the importance of addressing the root cause and preventing future mistakes.
How can a staff nurse recognize they are experiencing burnout? (EXCEPT)
- A. They are spending more time talking to staff on other units.
- B. Staff is questioning their clinical judgment.
- C. They sleep longer hours, sometimes coming in late to work.
- D. They are drinking alcohol more frequently to relax.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: A staff nurse experiencing burnout may isolate themselves, leading to less interaction with staff on other units. This can result in spending less time talking to staff on other units. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are common signs of burnout: staff questioning clinical judgment, increased sleep, and increased alcohol consumption.
Staff are sometimes injured when a patient or visitor becomes agitated. If a staff member reports an injury, the following actions should take place: (EXCEPT)
- A. Notify security.
- B. Complete an incident report.
- C. Notify the nursing supervisor.
- D. Ensure that staff has been examined.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Complete an incident report. This is because completing an incident report is crucial for documenting the details of the injury, initiating an investigation, and implementing preventive measures. Notifying security (A) is important for immediate assistance. Notifying the nursing supervisor (C) ensures appropriate follow-up care. Ensuring staff has been examined (D) is essential for assessing and treating injuries. Completing an incident report is a standard protocol in healthcare settings to ensure proper documentation and accountability.
Which theory emphasizes the long-range plan rather than rewards?
- A. Equity theory.
- B. Development.
- C. Goal setting.
- D. Extinction.
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.