Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

What should a CNL do when a patient inquires about the regulations on abortion?

1. Tell the patient you can't answer that because it's an ethical situation

2. Let the MD know the patient is asking about abortion

3. Inform the patient care RN

4. Look up regulations in NC and share them with the patient

The correct answer is: Look up regulations in NC and share them with the patient

The choice to look up regulations in North Carolina and share them with the patient is appropriate because it aligns with the clinical nurse leader's role of providing accurate information and supporting patients in making informed decisions about their healthcare. A CNL is trained to facilitate patient education and to ensure that patients have access to reliable information regarding their health concerns, including legal aspects related to reproductive health, such as abortion. In this context, being knowledgeable about local regulations allows the CNL to assist the patient in understanding their rights and options. It also emphasizes the importance of providing factual and unbiased information rather than deferring to someone else without addressing the patient's needs directly. This approach supports patient autonomy and empowers them to make informed choices. The other choices do not effectively address the patient's inquiry. Deferring the question to an MD or informing the care RN without providing information directly can leave the patient feeling unsupported and confused. These actions do not fulfill the CNL's responsibility to advocate for the patient or to educate them about their health options.