Question

A new graduate nurse is being mentored by a more experienced nurse. They are discussing the ways nurses need to remain active professionally. Which of the statements below indicates the new graduate understands ways to remain involved professionally? (Select all that apply) [23]

1. "I am thinking about joining the health committee at my church."
2. "I need to read newspapers, watch news broadcasts, and search the Internet for information related to health."
3. "I will join nursing committees at the hospital after I have several years of experience and better understand the issues affecting nursing."
4. "Nurses do not have very much voice in legislation in Washington, D.C. because of the shortage of nurses."

Answer 1

The graduate nurse understands professional involvement through community health committees, staying informed about health-related developments, and aiming to join nursing committees later in their career, but is mistaken about the legislative influence of nurses.

Step-by-step explanation:

The new graduate nurse displays an understanding of how to remain professionally active with the following statements:

• "I am thinking about joining the health committee at my church." - This indicates a recognition of the importance of community involvement and the role of nurses in health promotion and education outside of traditional clinical settings.
• "I need to read newspapers, watch news broadcasts, and search the Internet for information related to health." - Staying informed about current events and developments in the healthcare field is crucial for professional development and contributing meaningfully to discussions about healthcare practices and policies.
• "I will join nursing committees at the hospital after I have several years of experience and better understand the issues affecting nursing." - The intent to join nursing committees reflects a commitment to being professionally engaged and contributing to the advancement of nursing practice and patient care.

The statement about nurses not having much voice in legislation due to nurse shortages is incorrect and undermines the significant advocacy and influence nurses have on healthcare policy.