2009 Core Competencies (Annual)

1. It is important to understand how a person interacts with their family when taking care of them.

True

False

Understanding how a person interacts with their family is crucial when taking care of them because family dynamics and relationships greatly influence a person's well-being and overall health. By understanding their family dynamics, caregivers can provide more personalized and effective care, taking into account the support system, communication patterns, and potential conflicts within the family. This knowledge allows caregivers to create a more nurturing and supportive environment, promoting better outcomes for the person being cared for.

Explanation

Understanding how a person interacts with their family is crucial when taking care of them because family dynamics and relationships greatly influence a person's well-being and overall health. By understanding their family dynamics, caregivers can provide more personalized and effective care, taking into account the support system, communication patterns, and potential conflicts within the family. This knowledge allows caregivers to create a more nurturing and supportive environment, promoting better outcomes for the person being cared for.

2. How do you know if a product contains latex?

Test to see if it is stretchy like a balloon

Read the product label

Ask your charge nurse

The correct answer is to read the product label. By reading the product label, you can find information about the ingredients and materials used in the product, including whether it contains latex or not. This is a reliable and accurate way to determine if a product contains latex.

Explanation

The correct answer is to read the product label. By reading the product label, you can find information about the ingredients and materials used in the product, including whether it contains latex or not. This is a reliable and accurate way to determine if a product contains latex.

3. An incident can involve patients, employees, physicians, visitors or contractors.

True

False

The statement is true because an incident can involve any of the mentioned individuals - patients, employees, physicians, visitors, or contractors. Incidents can refer to a wide range of situations, such as accidents, errors, conflicts, or any other unexpected events that may occur within a healthcare setting. Therefore, it is important to be prepared to handle incidents involving any of these individuals to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

Explanation

The statement is true because an incident can involve any of the mentioned individuals - patients, employees, physicians, visitors, or contractors. Incidents can refer to a wide range of situations, such as accidents, errors, conflicts, or any other unexpected events that may occur within a healthcare setting. Therefore, it is important to be prepared to handle incidents involving any of these individuals to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

4. If you know a patient does not have insurance, you can charge their supplies to another patient's bill that does have insurance.

True

False

The statement is false because it is unethical and illegal to charge one patient's supplies to another patient's bill. Each patient should be responsible for their own charges and it is not appropriate to transfer the cost of one patient's supplies onto another patient's bill. Additionally, insurance companies require accurate billing and charging supplies to the wrong patient's bill can lead to issues with reimbursement and potential legal consequences.

Explanation

The statement is false because it is unethical and illegal to charge one patient's supplies to another patient's bill. Each patient should be responsible for their own charges and it is not appropriate to transfer the cost of one patient's supplies onto another patient's bill. Additionally, insurance companies require accurate billing and charging supplies to the wrong patient's bill can lead to issues with reimbursement and potential legal consequences.

5. Malfunctioning equipment should be removed from use immediately and labeled with a description of what is wrong with it.

True

False

When equipment malfunctions, it poses a risk to the safety and efficiency of operations. Therefore, it is necessary to remove malfunctioning equipment from use immediately. By doing so, potential accidents or further damage can be prevented. Additionally, labeling the equipment with a description of what is wrong with it helps to communicate the issue to others who may come into contact with the equipment, ensuring that it is not mistakenly used or causing harm.

Explanation

When equipment malfunctions, it poses a risk to the safety and efficiency of operations. Therefore, it is necessary to remove malfunctioning equipment from use immediately. By doing so, potential accidents or further damage can be prevented. Additionally, labeling the equipment with a description of what is wrong with it helps to communicate the issue to others who may come into contact with the equipment, ensuring that it is not mistakenly used or causing harm.

6. You may use and dispense patient information to anyone that calls and inquires about the patient's condition.

True

False

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Explanation

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7. If a patient has C. Diff, the best source to wash your hands with is:

Alcohol-Based Soap

Soap and Water

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Explanation

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8. Standards of Care are established by:

State Boards of Clinical Disciplines

Professional Organizations

Policies and Procedures

All of the Above

Standards of Care are established by State Boards of Clinical Disciplines, Professional Organizations, and Policies and Procedures. State Boards of Clinical Disciplines set standards to ensure that healthcare professionals adhere to a certain level of care and practice within their specific state. Professional Organizations, such as medical associations, also establish standards to guide the practice of their members. Additionally, healthcare facilities develop their own Policies and Procedures to outline the expected standards of care within their organization. Therefore, all of these entities contribute to the establishment of Standards of Care.

Explanation

Standards of Care are established by State Boards of Clinical Disciplines, Professional Organizations, and Policies and Procedures. State Boards of Clinical Disciplines set standards to ensure that healthcare professionals adhere to a certain level of care and practice within their specific state. Professional Organizations, such as medical associations, also establish standards to guide the practice of their members. Additionally, healthcare facilities develop their own Policies and Procedures to outline the expected standards of care within their organization. Therefore, all of these entities contribute to the establishment of Standards of Care.

9. Who is required to report errors?

Only managers

Only physicians

Only staff involved in the incident

All members of the team

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Explanation

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10. If you do not agree with a patient's belief and know that it might harm them, what should you do?

Respect their beliefs

Tell them that what they believe is bad for them

Refuse to take care of them since they are so different from you

Respecting a patient's beliefs is important as it promotes patient autonomy and fosters a trusting relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient. Even if the healthcare provider disagrees with the patient's belief and recognizes potential harm, it is crucial to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Engaging in open and non-judgmental communication can help the provider understand the patient's perspective better and explore alternative options that align with the patient's beliefs while minimizing potential harm. Refusing to care for the patient based on differences or forcefully telling them their belief is bad can damage the therapeutic relationship and hinder effective healthcare delivery.

Explanation

Respecting a patient's beliefs is important as it promotes patient autonomy and fosters a trusting relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient. Even if the healthcare provider disagrees with the patient's belief and recognizes potential harm, it is crucial to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Engaging in open and non-judgmental communication can help the provider understand the patient's perspective better and explore alternative options that align with the patient's beliefs while minimizing potential harm. Refusing to care for the patient based on differences or forcefully telling them their belief is bad can damage the therapeutic relationship and hinder effective healthcare delivery.

11. Wash your hands before and after handling any potentially hazardous material.

True

False

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Explanation

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12. A patient's right to treatment or services includes the right to:

Keep the patient at a treatment facility even if the facility cannot provide care the patient needs/requests

Be transferred to another organization if the treating facility cannot provide care the patient needs/requests

Demand cable TV while hospitalized

Eat only foods from fast food restaurants

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Explanation

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13. The purpose of the patient safety plan is to:

Improve patient safety and reduce risk

Outline disciplinary actions taken if errors are made

Develop an environment of blame

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Explanation

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14. Restraints can cause the patient's level of anxiety and confusion to increase.

True

False

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Explanation

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15. Sexual Harassment can be:

Verbal

Physical

Both verbal and physical

Sexual harassment can manifest in different forms, including verbal and physical actions. Verbal harassment involves unwelcome comments, jokes, or innuendos of a sexual nature that create a hostile or uncomfortable environment. Physical harassment refers to unwanted physical contact or advances, such as touching, groping, or assault. Both verbal and physical harassment are forms of sexual misconduct that violate an individual's boundaries and can cause emotional distress and harm. It is essential to address and prevent both types to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all.

Explanation

Sexual harassment can manifest in different forms, including verbal and physical actions. Verbal harassment involves unwelcome comments, jokes, or innuendos of a sexual nature that create a hostile or uncomfortable environment. Physical harassment refers to unwanted physical contact or advances, such as touching, groping, or assault. Both verbal and physical harassment are forms of sexual misconduct that violate an individual's boundaries and can cause emotional distress and harm. It is essential to address and prevent both types to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all.

16. Warning signs of alcohol impairment include:

Irritability, mood swings

Elaborate excuses for behavior

Isolation from others

All of the above

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Explanation

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17. Abuse can be physical, mental or verbal.

True

False

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Explanation

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18. You should always treat all body fluids as if they are infectious and avoid direct skin contact with them.

True

False

It is important to treat all body fluids as if they are infectious because they may contain harmful pathogens such as viruses or bacteria. By avoiding direct skin contact with these fluids, you can minimize the risk of transmission and protect yourself from potential infections. Therefore, the statement is true.

Explanation

It is important to treat all body fluids as if they are infectious because they may contain harmful pathogens such as viruses or bacteria. By avoiding direct skin contact with these fluids, you can minimize the risk of transmission and protect yourself from potential infections. Therefore, the statement is true.

19. When filling out the incident report, you should write down the names of all witnesses.

True

False

When filling out an incident report, it is important to include the names of all witnesses. This is because witnesses can provide valuable information about the incident and their testimonies can be crucial for any investigation or legal proceedings that may follow. Including their names ensures that their statements can be properly documented and credited, adding credibility and accuracy to the incident report.

Explanation

When filling out an incident report, it is important to include the names of all witnesses. This is because witnesses can provide valuable information about the incident and their testimonies can be crucial for any investigation or legal proceedings that may follow. Including their names ensures that their statements can be properly documented and credited, adding credibility and accuracy to the incident report.

20. Can a patient refuse care?

Yes

No

A patient has the right to refuse medical care or treatment. This is based on the principle of patient autonomy, which allows individuals to make decisions about their own healthcare. It is important to respect a patient's decision even if it goes against medical advice, as long as they are mentally competent to make informed choices.

Explanation

A patient has the right to refuse medical care or treatment. This is based on the principle of patient autonomy, which allows individuals to make decisions about their own healthcare. It is important to respect a patient's decision even if it goes against medical advice, as long as they are mentally competent to make informed choices.

21. It is never acceptable to chemically or physically restrain an elder for purposes of discipline or convenience.

True

False

22. When is a complaint or grievance considered resolved?

After 24 hours

When any action is taken

When the complainant/grievant is satisfied with the action taken

When the health care provider apologizes

A complaint or grievance is considered resolved when the complainant or grievant is satisfied with the action taken. This means that the issue raised has been addressed to the satisfaction of the person who made the complaint or filed the grievance. It does not necessarily depend on a specific time frame, whether an action has been taken, or whether an apology has been given. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the complainant or grievant feels that their concerns have been adequately addressed and resolved.

Explanation

A complaint or grievance is considered resolved when the complainant or grievant is satisfied with the action taken. This means that the issue raised has been addressed to the satisfaction of the person who made the complaint or filed the grievance. It does not necessarily depend on a specific time frame, whether an action has been taken, or whether an apology has been given. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the complainant or grievant feels that their concerns have been adequately addressed and resolved.

23. Ethics are based on personal values and beliefs that guide the decision-making process.

True

False

Ethics refer to a set of principles or values that individuals use to determine what is right or wrong in their decision-making process. These principles are often influenced by personal values and beliefs. Therefore, it is true that ethics are based on personal values and beliefs and play a crucial role in guiding the decision-making process.

Explanation

Ethics refer to a set of principles or values that individuals use to determine what is right or wrong in their decision-making process. These principles are often influenced by personal values and beliefs. Therefore, it is true that ethics are based on personal values and beliefs and play a crucial role in guiding the decision-making process.

24. It's okay to break off the third prong to get a plug to fit into an outlet.

True

False

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Explanation

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25. 80% of job injuries are ______________ injuries.

Neck

Shoulder

Back

The correct answer is "Back" because the question states that 80% of job injuries are back injuries. This means that a significant majority of injuries that occur in the workplace are related to the back, indicating that it is a common area of injury in job-related accidents.

Explanation

The correct answer is "Back" because the question states that 80% of job injuries are back injuries. This means that a significant majority of injuries that occur in the workplace are related to the back, indicating that it is a common area of injury in job-related accidents.

26. There are three major categories of impairment - alcoholism, drug addiction and mental health disorders.

True

False

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Explanation

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27. Once school-aged children know what is expected of them, they strive for praise.

True

False

When school-aged children are aware of the expectations set for them, they tend to work hard and seek approval or praise. This is because they want to meet the expectations and receive recognition for their efforts. Knowing what is expected of them provides them with a sense of direction and motivates them to perform well in order to receive positive feedback. Therefore, it can be concluded that school-aged children strive for praise when they know what is expected of them.

Explanation

When school-aged children are aware of the expectations set for them, they tend to work hard and seek approval or praise. This is because they want to meet the expectations and receive recognition for their efforts. Knowing what is expected of them provides them with a sense of direction and motivates them to perform well in order to receive positive feedback. Therefore, it can be concluded that school-aged children strive for praise when they know what is expected of them.

28. Control of infection involves breaking the chain of infection. What 3 links in the infection chain must be present in order for an infection to occur?

Infectious agent, moist conditions, means of transmission

Dirty conditions, susceptible host, prolonged exposure

An infectious person, intimate contact, prolonged exposure

Infectious agent, means of transmission, susceptible host

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Explanation

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29. Which of the following activities would NOT maintain the patient's dignity?

Taking the patient's vital signs in an area removed from the direct hearing and vision of other patients

Exposing part of the patient's body during transfer

Closing bedside curtains when examining a patient

Speaking in quiet tones when obtaining information from a patient

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Explanation

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30. Side rails can be considered a form of restraint.

True

False

Side rails can be considered a form of restraint because they are used to prevent patients or individuals from falling out of bed or off a platform. They act as a physical barrier that limits their movement and freedom, thereby restricting their ability to get out of bed or move around freely. While side rails are primarily used for safety purposes, they can also unintentionally restrict a person's autonomy and independence, making them a form of restraint.

Explanation

Side rails can be considered a form of restraint because they are used to prevent patients or individuals from falling out of bed or off a platform. They act as a physical barrier that limits their movement and freedom, thereby restricting their ability to get out of bed or move around freely. While side rails are primarily used for safety purposes, they can also unintentionally restrict a person's autonomy and independence, making them a form of restraint.

31. The care plan is just a nursing responsibility.

True

False

The statement "The care plan is just a nursing responsibility" is incorrect. A care plan is not solely the responsibility of nurses. It is a collaborative effort that involves the entire healthcare team, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals. The care plan outlines the specific interventions and goals for a patient's care, and it is developed based on the input and expertise of all team members. Therefore, the correct answer is false.

Explanation

The statement "The care plan is just a nursing responsibility" is incorrect. A care plan is not solely the responsibility of nurses. It is a collaborative effort that involves the entire healthcare team, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals. The care plan outlines the specific interventions and goals for a patient's care, and it is developed based on the input and expertise of all team members. Therefore, the correct answer is false.

32. A complaint is a verbal issue or concern about patient care or access to care issues.

True

False

A complaint is a form of expressing dissatisfaction or concern regarding patient care or issues related to access to care. It is a verbal expression that allows patients to voice their problems or grievances regarding the quality of care they have received or any difficulties they have faced in accessing healthcare services. Therefore, the statement that a complaint is a verbal issue or concern about patient care or access to care issues is true.

Explanation

A complaint is a form of expressing dissatisfaction or concern regarding patient care or issues related to access to care. It is a verbal expression that allows patients to voice their problems or grievances regarding the quality of care they have received or any difficulties they have faced in accessing healthcare services. Therefore, the statement that a complaint is a verbal issue or concern about patient care or access to care issues is true.

33. PHI only covers written documents.

True

False

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Explanation

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34. If a patient is in isolation, housekeeping should not clean their room.

True

False

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Explanation

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35. Symptoms of latex allergy can be:

Rash, hives or itching

Itchy runny eyes and sneezing

Difficulty breathing and wheezing

All of the above

The symptoms of latex allergy can include rash, hives, itching, itchy runny eyes, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."

Explanation

The symptoms of latex allergy can include rash, hives, itching, itchy runny eyes, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."

36. Advance directives are documents which state a patient's choices concerning:

Medical treatment

Financial decisions

Legal matters

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Explanation

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37. When lifting a patient, you should:

Stand upright with your knees locked

Keep your feet close together

Bend at your hips and knees

When lifting a patient, it is important to bend at your hips and knees. This position allows for a better distribution of weight and reduces strain on your back. Standing upright with your knees locked can lead to an increased risk of injury, as it puts excessive pressure on your lower back. Keeping your feet close together may also compromise your balance and stability while lifting. Therefore, bending at your hips and knees is the correct and safest way to lift a patient.

Explanation

When lifting a patient, it is important to bend at your hips and knees. This position allows for a better distribution of weight and reduces strain on your back. Standing upright with your knees locked can lead to an increased risk of injury, as it puts excessive pressure on your lower back. Keeping your feet close together may also compromise your balance and stability while lifting. Therefore, bending at your hips and knees is the correct and safest way to lift a patient.

38. Which of the following is a contributing factor to a fall?

Bed Rails

Restraints

Brakes

All of the above

All of the options listed (bed rails, restraints, and brakes) can contribute to a fall. Bed rails can be a hazard if they are not properly secured or if they are not used correctly. Restraints, such as belts or straps, can also increase the risk of falls if they are not used appropriately or if they restrict the person's movement too much. Brakes on equipment, such as wheelchairs or beds, that are not functioning properly or not used can also lead to falls. Therefore, all of these factors can contribute to a fall.

Explanation

All of the options listed (bed rails, restraints, and brakes) can contribute to a fall. Bed rails can be a hazard if they are not properly secured or if they are not used correctly. Restraints, such as belts or straps, can also increase the risk of falls if they are not used appropriately or if they restrict the person's movement too much. Brakes on equipment, such as wheelchairs or beds, that are not functioning properly or not used can also lead to falls. Therefore, all of these factors can contribute to a fall.

39. Experts insist that the all-time #1 method for preventing the spread of infection is:

Proper use of personal protective equipment

Sterilization

Use of standard precautions

Proper hand hygiene

Proper hand hygiene is considered the all-time #1 method for preventing the spread of infection. This is because our hands come into contact with various surfaces and objects throughout the day, which can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses. By practicing proper hand hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizers, we can effectively remove these pathogens from our hands and reduce the risk of transmission. Personal protective equipment, sterilization, and standard precautions are also important in infection control, but hand hygiene remains the most crucial preventive measure.

Explanation

Proper hand hygiene is considered the all-time #1 method for preventing the spread of infection. This is because our hands come into contact with various surfaces and objects throughout the day, which can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses. By practicing proper hand hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizers, we can effectively remove these pathogens from our hands and reduce the risk of transmission. Personal protective equipment, sterilization, and standard precautions are also important in infection control, but hand hygiene remains the most crucial preventive measure.

40. Why is spousal abuse not a legally reportable offense?

Spousal victimization is not state-regulated due to the complications involved in domestic situations

A spouse who is not otherwise incapacitated is able to leave the situation

An abused spouse is not vulnerable in any way

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Explanation

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41. An example of negligence is:

Leaving a patient on a bed pan for an extended period of time

Giving a patient too much medication that results in the patient being ventilated

Transferring a patient to another floor without O2 when it was ordered and the patient dies

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Explanation

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42. Because elders fear loneliness, they usually enjoy depending on others for assistance.

True

False

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Explanation

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43. The underlying core value of the Americans with Disabilities Act is based on the principle of:

Veracity

Justice

Respect for others

Autonomy

The correct answer is Respect for others. The Americans with Disabilities Act is based on the principle of respecting the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. It aims to ensure that they have equal opportunities and access to public facilities, employment, transportation, and other aspects of society. By promoting respect for others, the Act seeks to eliminate discrimination and create a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.

Explanation

The correct answer is Respect for others. The Americans with Disabilities Act is based on the principle of respecting the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. It aims to ensure that they have equal opportunities and access to public facilities, employment, transportation, and other aspects of society. By promoting respect for others, the Act seeks to eliminate discrimination and create a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.

44. The plan of care focuses on actions which are designed to solve or minimize:

Chronic condition

Existing problems

Possible problems

The plan of care is designed to address and resolve any existing problems that a person may have. This means that the plan will provide actions and strategies to alleviate or minimize the impact of these problems. It is important to focus on existing problems to ensure that the person's health and well-being are improved and maintained. By identifying and addressing these existing problems, the plan of care can help to improve the person's overall quality of life and prevent further complications.

Explanation

The plan of care is designed to address and resolve any existing problems that a person may have. This means that the plan will provide actions and strategies to alleviate or minimize the impact of these problems. It is important to focus on existing problems to ensure that the person's health and well-being are improved and maintained. By identifying and addressing these existing problems, the plan of care can help to improve the person's overall quality of life and prevent further complications.

45. Select the best answer. Which of the following is a precipitating factor for violence?

Lack of a support system

Poor customer service and/or a lack of respect

Alcohol or drug abuse

Pain, fear

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Explanation

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46. If you feel you are being sexually harassed, you should first:

Tell the harasser that their conduct is unwelcomed

Tell your supervisor

Just quit and find another job

In cases of sexual harassment, it is important to first inform the harasser that their conduct is unwelcomed. This step allows for the possibility of the behavior to stop without further escalation. However, it is also crucial to inform your supervisor about the situation. They have a responsibility to address the issue and take appropriate action to ensure a safe and respectful work environment. Quitting and finding another job may be an option in extreme cases, but it is generally recommended to follow the proper channels within the organization to address and resolve the issue.

Explanation

In cases of sexual harassment, it is important to first inform the harasser that their conduct is unwelcomed. This step allows for the possibility of the behavior to stop without further escalation. However, it is also crucial to inform your supervisor about the situation. They have a responsibility to address the issue and take appropriate action to ensure a safe and respectful work environment. Quitting and finding another job may be an option in extreme cases, but it is generally recommended to follow the proper channels within the organization to address and resolve the issue.

47. When leaving a patient's room you should make sure the bed is in low position, call bell is draped over the oxygen flowmeter and the wheels on the bed are locked.

True

False

The statement is incorrect. When leaving a patient's room, it is important to ensure that the bed is in a safe and comfortable position for the patient, the call bell is within reach, and the wheels on the bed are locked. However, there is no mention of the oxygen flowmeter in the question. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

Explanation

The statement is incorrect. When leaving a patient's room, it is important to ensure that the bed is in a safe and comfortable position for the patient, the call bell is within reach, and the wheels on the bed are locked. However, there is no mention of the oxygen flowmeter in the question. Therefore, the correct answer is False.