You pick the legal, honest next step when rights, consent, or a policy collide with a request. Five of the 15 questions include the correct answer and rationale. The other ten keep answers in the study hub. Continue with the RN exams exam guide or more RN exams practice questions.
Five ethics questions with answers
Cover the key. Write the first action. Then open the rationale and name why the other choices fail.
Question 1
A patient is admitted for a hip replacement complicated by uncontrolled diabetes and early dementiThe nurse coordinates referrals to an endocrinologist to establish an insulin protocol and organizes out-patient physical therapy in an Alzheimer's assisted living facility upon discharge. The role of this nurse is the:
A. informatics specialist.
B. educator.
C. case manager.
D. quality manager.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: C — case manager.
Step-by-step rationale for why choice C (case manager) is correct:
1. A case manager coordinates referrals and services for patients with complex needs, such as this patient with diabetes and dementia.
2. In this scenario, the nurse is coordinating referrals to an endocrinologist and organizing physical therapy, which aligns with the role of a case manager.
3. Case managers ensure continuity of care and facilitate communication between different healthcare providers.
4. The nurse's role in organizing follow-up care and services for the patient falls under the responsibilities of a case manager.
Summary of why other choices are incorrect:
A: Informatics specialist - This role focuses on managing health information systems, not coordinating referrals and services for patients.
B: Educator - While education may be a component of the nurse's role, the primary focus in this scenario is on coordinating referrals and services, which is more in line with a case manager's responsibilities.
D: Quality manager - Quality managers focus on ensuring healthcare services meet quality standards
Question 2
A hospital recently learned that their scorecard did not meet the national benchmark for patient satisfaction and brought in a professional change agent to determine what their issues were and how they could improve their score. The agent collected data and recommended that nurses participate in interdisciplinary walking rounds and allow the patient and family to be participants. Nurses now round every shift and perform "huddles to update the team" as needed throughout the shift as part of best practices. Random visits are made to nursing units to ensure all nurses are participating and patients are interviewed for their involvement. This stage of Lewin's change is:
A. unfreeze.
B. moving.
C. refreeze.
D. resistance.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: B — moving.
The correct answer is B: moving. In Lewin's change management model, the process involves three stages: unfreeze, move, and refreeze. In this scenario, the hospital has already identified the need for change (unfreeze) by recognizing the issue with patient satisfaction scores. The change agent's recommendations and the implementation of interdisciplinary walking rounds and involving patients and families in rounds indicate the active phase of making changes and transitioning to new practices (moving). The actions taken, such as rounding every shift, updating the team through huddles, monitoring nurse participation, and interviewing patients, all demonstrate movement towards the desired change. Refreeze would come after the changes have been successfully implemented to stabilize and institutionalize the new practices. The options A (unfreeze) and C (refreeze) are incorrect as the hospital is currently in the implementation phase of change, and option D (resistance) does not apply as there is no indication of significant resistance to the proposed changes in the scenario provided.
Question 3
Which task is appropriate for the RN to delegate to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) provided the delegatee has had experience and training?
A. Evaluate the ability of a patient to swallow ice after a gastroscopy.
B. Assist a patient who is postoperative hip replacement to ambulate with a walker for the first time.
C. Change the disposable tracheotomy cannula for a new postoperative tracheotomy patient if secretions are thick and tenacious.
D. Obtain a sterile urine sample from a patient with a Foley catheter that is connected to a closed drainage system.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: D — Obtain a sterile urine sample from a patient with a Foley catheter that is connected to a closed drainage system.
The correct answer is D because obtaining a sterile urine sample from a patient with a Foley catheter connected to a closed drainage system is a task that can be safely delegated to UAP who have experience and training. Here's the rationale:
1. Task Complexity: This task involves a straightforward procedure that does not require specialized medical knowledge.
2. Training and Experience: UAP can be trained to perform this task under supervision and with specific guidelines.
3. Minimal Risk: When performed correctly, obtaining a sterile urine sample carries minimal risk to the patient.
4. Routine Procedure: This task is a common and routine procedure that UAP can be trained to perform effectively.
Other Choices:
A: Evaluating the ability of a patient to swallow ice after a gastroscopy involves medical assessment and potential risk of aspiration, which should be done by a licensed healthcare professional.
B: Assisting a postoperative hip replacement patient to ambulate for the first time requires monitoring for complications and assessing patient response, which should be done
Question 4
The surgical team arrives in the operating room and one member states, "Everyone stop. Let's identify the patient and operative site. Now does anyone have any questions or concerns?" This process is known as:
A. time-out.
B. a critical pathway.
C. special cause variation.
D. lean methodology.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — time-out.
The correct answer is A: time-out. A time-out is a crucial pre-operative safety practice where the surgical team pauses to verify the patient's identity, procedure, and surgical site to prevent errors. This step ensures everyone is on the same page and reduces the risk of wrong-site surgeries.
Explanation:
1. Identify patient and operative site: By verifying the patient's identity and the correct surgical site, the team prevents potential mistakes.
2. Address questions or concerns: Encouraging team members to voice any uncertainties or issues promotes open communication and collaboration.
3. Safety measure: The time-out is a key component of the World Health Organization's Surgical Safety Checklist to enhance patient safety.
Summary:
B: A critical pathway is a predetermined sequence of steps in patient care, not specific to surgical safety.
C: Special cause variation refers to statistical process control, unrelated to surgical safety.
D: Lean methodology focuses on efficiency and waste reduction in processes, not directly related to pre-operative safety checks like a time
Question 5
A nurse practicing on a unit where domestic violence is common wants to learn how to apply nursing theory to practice on this unit. She considers the interrelatedness of the constructs of Watson's Theory of Caring and designs:
A. conceptual model of caring.
B. hypothesis of the impact of caring on domestic violence.
C. proposition of how caring is conceptualized.
D. theory of scientific inquiry.
Show answer and rationale
Correct answer: A — conceptual model of caring.
The correct answer is A: conceptual model of caring. In this scenario, the nurse wants to apply nursing theory to practice in a unit dealing with domestic violence. Watson's Theory of Caring emphasizes the importance of the nurse-patient relationship, which is central when addressing sensitive issues like domestic violence. By considering the interrelatedness of the constructs of this theory, the nurse can develop a conceptual model that guides her practice in providing caring and compassionate care to domestic violence survivors. This model will help her incorporate key elements of caring, such as empathy and respect, into her nursing interventions.
Summary:
B: Hypothesis of the impact of caring on domestic violence - This choice is incorrect as it focuses on the impact of caring on domestic violence, rather than the application of a nursing theory to practice.
C: Proposition of how caring is conceptualized - This choice is incorrect as it only addresses the conceptualization of caring, not the practical application of a nursing theory to practice.
D: Theory of scientific
Keep going past these 15 questions
Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.
Stems and choices stay public so you can still reason. Correct answers and full rationales unlock with the rest of the bank.
Question 6
Which functions can be delegated only to another RN with appropriate experience and training? (select all that apply)
A. Assessment of skin integrity on third day of hospitalization
B. Evaluation of patient teaching related to turn, cough, and deep breathing exercises
C. Nursing judgment related to withholding medication based on vital signs
D. RNs do not delegate to other RNs, they delegate only to licensed practical nurses or unlicensed assistive personnel
Correct answer:
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.
During a health history interview, the nurse listens to a patient relating the precipitating events that led to the onset of chest pain. She focuses her attention on the patient, makes eye contact, and acknowledges what the patient has to say. The nurse is exhibiting:
A. assertive communication.
B. active listening.
C. empathy.
D. passive communication.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is B: active listening. Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, making eye contact, acknowledging what they are saying, and showing genuine interest in their words. In this scenario, the nurse is attentively listening to the patient's account of the events leading to chest pain, demonstrating active listening skills by being present in the moment and engaging with the patient's narrative.
A: Assertive communication involves expressing one's thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully. This choice is incorrect because the nurse is not actively expressing her thoughts or feelings in this situation.
C: Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another. While empathy is important in nursing care, the nurse in this scenario is primarily engaged in listening rather than specifically expressing empathy.
D: Passive communication is characterized by a lack of assertiveness and active engagement in the conversation. This choice is incorrect because the nurse is actively listening and engaging with the patient's narrative.
A patient states, "My cancer is in remission finally after all that chemotherapy, my friend used the same chemotherapy and wasn't so lucky. I want to continue participating in spiritual care and 'mind games' to keep my memory intact. I am also enrolled in Tai chi, but I just can't stop thinking about my sick lung." This patient adheres to which principle underlying alternative healing?
A. A negative alteration in the body produces a parallel effect on the mind and spirit.
B. The body can heal itself with the help of complementary alternative therapies.
C. Approaches to therapy are individualized.
D. There is a focus on the total lifestyle.
Correct answer:
Step-by-step rationale for why choice B is correct:
1. The patient believes in the power of complementary alternative therapies to help the body heal itself.
2. This aligns with the principle underlying alternative healing, which emphasizes the body's innate ability to heal.
3. By engaging in spiritual care, mind games, Tai chi, and focusing on memory and lung health, the patient is supporting the body's natural healing processes.
4. This choice is correct as it reflects the patient's belief in utilizing alternative therapies to support the body's healing mechanisms.
Summary of why other choices are incorrect:
A. This choice suggests a negative alteration affecting the mind and spirit, which is not directly related to the patient's belief in complementary alternative therapies for healing.
C. While individualized approaches to therapy are important in alternative healing, this choice does not directly address the patient's belief in the body's ability to heal itself.
D. While focusing on total lifestyle is important in alternative healing, this choice does not directly
While completing a nursing degree in Virginia, a student who is interested in teaching in Laredo, Texas, enrolls in Spanish classes for 4 years, knowing that a high number of Mexican-Americans live there. This nursing student values:
A. cultural competence.
B. ethnocentrism.
C. prejudice.
D. stereotyping.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: cultural competence. By enrolling in Spanish classes to better communicate with Mexican-Americans in Laredo, the nursing student is demonstrating an understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Cultural competence involves having the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to effectively interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds. This student's actions show a commitment to providing culturally sensitive care in a multicultural setting.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect:
B: Ethnocentrism refers to the tendency to view one's own culture as superior to others. The student's actions of learning Spanish do not align with this mindset.
C: Prejudice involves preconceived opinions or attitudes towards a group. The student's actions are aimed at improving cross-cultural understanding, not perpetuating negative stereotypes.
D: Stereotyping involves making assumptions about individuals based on their group membership. The student's choice to learn Spanish is about building connections and understanding, not generalizing about an entire group.
What historical event first led to the recognition of the contribution of blacks to nursing?
A. Florence Nightingale's acceptance of black nurses into the first nursing school
B. The contributions of black nurses at the Pennsylvania Hospital, the first hospital in America
C. Mary Seacole's efforts to care for soldiers during the Crimean War
D. The work done by wives of wealthy black nobles who carried food and medicine from house to house during the Middle Ages
Correct answer:
The correct answer is C: Mary Seacole's efforts to care for soldiers during the Crimean War. Mary Seacole was a Jamaican nurse who provided medical care to soldiers during the Crimean War. Her contributions highlighted the important role that black individuals played in nursing. This event marked the first significant recognition of the contributions of blacks to the nursing profession.
Explanation of why other choices are incorrect:
A: Florence Nightingale's acceptance of black nurses into the first nursing school - While Florence Nightingale is known as a pioneer of modern nursing, her acceptance of black nurses into nursing schools did not specifically lead to the recognition of the contribution of blacks to nursing.
B: The contributions of black nurses at the Pennsylvania Hospital, the first hospital in America - While black nurses may have made contributions at Pennsylvania Hospital, this event did not lead to the initial recognition of the contribution of blacks to nursing.
D: The work done by wives of wealthy black nobles who carried food and medicine from
Einstein's theory of relativity laid the groundwork for theories of mathematics, and Freud and Jung provided the basis for a philosophy of man. Which nursing theory served as the foundation for nursing science?
A. Rogers' science of unitary human beings
B. Nightingale's theory of practice
C. Watson's theory of human caring
D. King's theory of goal attainment
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: Rogers' science of unitary human beings. Martha Rogers' theory emphasizes the interconnectedness of humans and the environment, showing how individuals are unified with their surroundings. This theory serves as the foundation for nursing science by focusing on the holistic nature of individuals and their environment, aligning with the core principles of nursing practice. Rogers' theory guides nurses in understanding the interconnectedness of human beings and their environment, shaping the way nursing care is delivered.
Summary of other choices:
B: Nightingale's theory of practice focuses on environmental factors and cleanliness in healthcare settings, but it does not provide the comprehensive framework for nursing science.
C: Watson's theory of human caring emphasizes the importance of caring in nursing, but it does not serve as the fundamental basis for nursing science.
D: King's theory of goal attainment emphasizes goal setting and achieving outcomes in nursing care, but it does not lay the foundational principles for nursing science.
Three illegal immigrants with no health insurance or money sustained life-threatening injuries during an automobile accident. Two of these individuals had head trauma and lacerated internal organs. The decision was made to provide extended care in the trauma center after emergency surgery was performed to save their lives. The third individual received only minor injuries, which were treated in the emergency department. The care of the two critical clients was based on the ethical principle of:
A. utilitarianism.
B. deontology.
C. autonomy.
D. veracity.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A: utilitarianism. Utilitarianism is an ethical principle that focuses on maximizing overall well-being and minimizing harm. In this scenario, the decision to provide extended care to the two critical individuals with life-threatening injuries aligns with utilitarianism as it prioritizes saving the most lives and reducing suffering. By choosing to allocate resources to those with the most severe injuries, the healthcare providers are aiming to maximize the overall benefit to society.
Summary of why the other choices are incorrect:
B: Deontology focuses on following rules and duties regardless of the consequences. In this case, the decision to provide care based on severity of injuries goes against a strict deontological approach.
C: Autonomy emphasizes respecting individuals' rights to make their own decisions about their care, which is not the primary consideration in this scenario.
D: Veracity pertains to honesty and truthfulness in communication, which is not directly relevant to the decision-making process in this healthcare scenario.
According to current data related to the nursing shortage: (select all that apply)
A. salaries of nurses are competitive with those of other professionals such as teachers.
B. only 19% of nurses are minorities.
C. overall, nurses are satisfied with their jobs but leave the profession because of fear of contracting fatal diseases.
D. the employment opportunities for nurses continue to be strong.
Correct answer:
Rationale for Answer D: The correct answer is D because the statement aligns with current data indicating a strong demand for nurses leading to ample job opportunities. This information is supported by various reports and studies highlighting the ongoing nursing shortage and the need for more healthcare professionals. Employment opportunities for nurses are indeed robust, with job growth projected to continue in the coming years due to factors like an aging population and increasing healthcare needs.
Summary of Other Choices:
A: Salaries of nurses being competitive with other professionals like teachers may vary depending on location and specialty, but it is not a direct indicator of the nursing shortage.
B: The percentage of minority nurses is not directly related to the nursing shortage issue, making this statement irrelevant to the current data on the shortage.
C: Job satisfaction and reasons for leaving the nursing profession may include various factors, but fear of contracting diseases is not a primary reason cited in current data on the nursing shortage.
A nurse is concerned about safe staffing levels at a facility and observes that several units have no RN coverage but instead have RNs who float among several units. In determining whether this staffing concern should be reported to an outside agency, the nurse understands that, with whistle-blowing:
A. reporting unsafe staffing levels to The Joint Commission provides protection from the employer.
B. keeping copies of documented inappropriate staffing patterns in the nurse's personal file is illegal.
C. when observing inappropriate staffing, the nurse should record her personal thoughts concerning the outcomes.
D. one should seek guidance from a trusted individual who can provide an objective point of view.
Correct answer:
The correct answer is A because reporting unsafe staffing levels to The Joint Commission is an appropriate course of action for addressing concerns about patient safety. The Joint Commission is an independent organization that accredits healthcare facilities and promotes high-quality care standards. Whistleblower protection laws safeguard employees who report violations of laws, regulations, or standards that threaten public health or safety. Reporting to The Joint Commission can lead to an investigation and potential improvement in staffing levels to ensure patient safety.
Incorrect answers:
B: Keeping copies of documented inappropriate staffing patterns in the nurse's personal file is not illegal, but it may not be the most effective way to address the issue.
C: Recording personal thoughts on outcomes is not as effective as taking action to report concerns to the appropriate regulatory body.
D: Seeking guidance is important, but in cases of unsafe staffing levels, it is crucial to report the issue to the appropriate regulatory agency for resolution.
The nurse is discussing the importance of evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) with a group of students. Which statement by a student indicates understanding of this process?
A. "EBDM is a one-step process to make clinical decisions.â€Â
B. "EBDM utilizes subjective decision-making.â€Â
C. "EBDM uses interventions with replicable results.â€Â
D. "EBDM relies on past nursing experiences.â€Â
Correct answer:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
1. Evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) involves using interventions with replicable results based on high-quality research evidence.
2. By utilizing interventions with replicable results, healthcare providers can ensure consistency and effectiveness in patient care.
3. This process helps in making informed decisions that are based on scientific evidence rather than personal biases or experiences.
4. Choosing interventions with replicable results leads to better patient outcomes and improved quality of care.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A: Incorrect. EBDM is not a one-step process; it involves multiple steps including identifying a clinical question, searching for evidence, appraising the evidence, and applying it to practice.
B: Incorrect. EBDM aims to minimize subjective decision-making by relying on objective research evidence rather than personal opinions.
D: Incorrect. While past nursing experiences can inform decision-making, EBDM emphasizes the use of current research evidence to guide practice.
RN exams ethics practice questions, set 2 for nursing students in the United States. Fifteen items. Five include answers and rationales in American English.
No. Nursier is independent practice. Register through the official path named on the RN exams exam guide.
The first five questions already include the rationale. Start full practice to unlock the remaining keys, missed-question review, and the rest of the bank.
Keep going past these 15 questions
Missed-question review, longer banks, and the rest of 20,000+ nursing practice questions open when you start studying.
