Dimensions of Nursing Practice
Q&A with Rationale | Rasmussen
University
1. Which nursing pioneer is recognized for establishing the first nursing philosophy based on
health maintenance and restoration?
A. Clara Barton
B. Lillian Wald
C. Florence Nightingale
D. Harriet Tubman
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Florence Nightingale was the first to develop a formal nursing
philosophy focused on the environment’s role in health. She believed that sanitation and
fresh air were essential for patient recovery. Her work during the Crimean War laid the
foundation for modern professional nursing practice.
2. A nurse is ensuring that a patient has signed the consent form before surgery. Which
ethical principle is the nurse primarily advocating for?
A. Autonomy
,B. Non-maleficence
C. Beneficence
D. Justice
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Autonomy refers to the right of patients to make their own decisions
about their medical care. By ensuring informed consent, the nurse respects the patient’s
self-determination and legal rights. This process ensures the patient is fully aware of the
risks and benefits before proceeding.
3. According to Benner’s stages of nursing proficiency, a nurse who has been in the same
clinical position for 2 to 3 years is considered:
A. Novice
B. Advanced Beginner
C. Proficient
D. Competent
Correct Answer: D
Expert Explanation: The competent nurse has usually been in the same job for two to
three years. This nurse understands the organization and specific care required by the
patient population. They are able to anticipate nursing actions and establish long-range
goals for their patients.
, 4. Which organization is responsible for defining the Standards of Professional Nursing
Practice?
A. The Joint Commission
B. American Nurses Association (ANA)
C. National League for Nursing (NLN)
D. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The American Nurses Association (ANA) develops and maintains the
standards that guide nursing practice in the United States. These standards ensure that
nurses provide high-quality care and are held accountable for their actions. They apply to
all registered nurses regardless of their specific clinical specialty.
5. What is the primary purpose of the Nurse Practice Act (NPA)?
A. To offer scholarships for nursing students
B. To provide a salary scale for registered nurses
C. To protect the public from unsafe practitioners
D. To mandate specific staffing ratios in hospitals
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: The Nurse Practice Act is state legislation designed to protect the
health and safety of the public. It defines the legal scope of nursing practice and sets