Dimensions of Nursing Practice
Q&A with Rationale | Rasmussen
University
1. A nurse is caring for a patient who has decided to stop all life-sustaining treatments. Which
ethical principle is the nurse upholding by supporting this decision?
A. Beneficence
B. Nonmaleficence
C. Justice
D. Autonomy
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make their own decisions
about their medical care without being influenced by their healthcare providers. In this
scenario, the nurse is respecting the patient’s right to self-determination regarding their
treatment plan. This principle is fundamental to providing patient-centered care and
maintaining professional boundaries.
2. Which component of the SBAR communication tool is used when a nurse describes the
current patient status and vital signs?
A. Assessment
,B. Background
C. Situation
D. Recommendation
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Assessment in SBAR involves providing clinical findings such as vital
signs, physical exam data, and recent lab results. This part of the communication helps the
receiver understand the nurse’s evaluation of the problem. It serves as the analytical bridge
between the patient’s history and the suggested plan of action.
3. A nurse administrator is using a leadership style that encourages group discussion and
decision-making. Which style is being demonstrated?
A. Autocratic
B. Laissez-faire
C. Democratic
D. Bureaucratic
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Democratic leadership is characterized by shared decision-making
and active participation from staff members. This approach often leads to higher job
satisfaction and better team collaboration because it values individual input. It contrast
, with autocratic leadership where the leader makes all decisions independently without
consulting others.
4. What is the primary purpose of Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) in nursing?
A. To reduce the cost of medical supplies and equipment
B. To ensure that nursing care is based on the most current and best research
C. To increase the amount of paperwork required for nurses
D. To standardize care so that every patient receives the exact same treatment
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: Evidence-Based Practice integrates clinical expertise, patient values,
and the best research evidence into the decision-making process for patient care. The
ultimate goal is to improve patient outcomes and ensure safety by utilizing validated
methods rather than tradition alone. It requires nurses to stay updated with the latest
clinical trials and academic findings.
5. Which of the following is considered an unintentional tort?
A. Assault
B. Battery
C. Negligence
D. False Imprisonment
Correct Answer: C