Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

How is critical thinking best demonstrated by a CNL when orienting a newly graduated nurse?

1. Discussing with the physician the rationale for discontinuing cardiac monitoring in a hospice patient

2. Drawing scheduled cardiac enzymes every 8 hours

3. Reviewing patient care guidelines and protocols related to hourly rounding

4. Balancing both the charge role and the preceptor role simultaneously

The correct answer is: Discussing with the physician the rationale for discontinuing cardiac monitoring in a hospice patient

The demonstration of critical thinking by a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) when orienting a newly graduated nurse is best illustrated through engaging in discussions with the physician about the rationale for discontinuing cardiac monitoring in a hospice patient. This scenario showcases critical thinking because it involves a comprehensive understanding of patient-centered care, ethical considerations, and the complex dynamics of end-of-life care. Working in a hospice setting requires the CNL to assess the needs and progression of the patient's condition while also considering the core principles of palliative care. Engaging the physician in a discussion about discontinuing cardiac monitoring indicates the CNL's ability to analyze the situation critically, weigh the clinical implications, and incorporate the interdisciplinary approach essential in patient care. This discussion also serves as an educational moment for the newly graduated nurse, offering insights into the importance of collaborative decision-making and patient preferences in the context of terminal illness. In contrast, the other options, while relevant to clinical practice, don't purely assess critical thinking in the same way. Drawing scheduled cardiac enzymes every 8 hours is a task-oriented approach that may not require higher-level critical reasoning related to patient outcomes. Reviewing guidelines and protocols regarding hourly rounding reflects knowledge of policy but does not engage in the critical analysis of how those policies impact individual patient