. A nurse who provides care in a busy ambulatory clinic knows ...

[rlane42]

. A nurse who provides care in a busy ambulatory clinic knows that there are numerous occupational hazards associated with the provision of nursing care.
 
  What is the employer's responsibility in minimizing the nurse's risk of experiencing an injury or infection?
 
  A) The employer must provide all the necessary supplies and equipment to prevent injuries
  and infections.
  B) The employer must ensure that staffing levels are maintained at a level specified by the state
  board of nursing.
  C) The employer must have dedicated occupational health officers present at all times.
  D) The employer must release nurses from tasks that may present a threat to their health.

Question 2

A recent nursing graduate has become overwhelmed with reality shock in recent weeks, despite the fact that he secured a job in the setting that was his first choice. This nurse's best response to his experience with reality shock is to
 
  A) confront the manager of the unit with the details of his experience.
  B) reduce the performance expectations that he places on himself.
  C) prioritize physical assessments and interventions over patients' psychosocial needs.
  D) seek input from a trusted nurse who can act as a coach or mentor.

[laurnthompson]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: A
Employers must be held accountable for providing the supplies and environment to
make work settings safe. All risks cannot normally be eliminated and dedicated occupational
health staff may or may not be available or necessary. Safe staffing levels are important, but
these do not necessarily mitigate the risk of workplace injuries and infections.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: D
A coach or mentor can be of great assistance when recent nursing graduates are
faced with reality shock. Such a person may be of more benefit than the manager of the unit,
who may be too busy to assist the nurse with his adjustment. Reducing the quality of care or
reducing expectations may place the burden of the nurse's reality shock on patients themselves,
which is inappropriate.