A graduate nurse is reviewing information about the NCLEX exam on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) website. Which of the following information should the nurse identify about the NCLEX exam?

The correct answer is b. Misunderstanding of roles.

Choice A: Scope of practice

Reason: While the scope of practice defines the roles and responsibilities of different healthcare professionals, it is not inherently a barrier to interprofessional communication. Instead, it provides clarity on what each professional can and cannot do, which can actually facilitate better teamwork and communication.

Choice B: Misunderstanding of roles

Reason: Misunderstanding of roles is a significant barrier to interprofessional communication. When team members are unclear about each other’s roles and responsibilities, it can lead to confusion, overlap, and gaps in care. This misunderstanding can hinder effective collaboration and communication, as team members may not know who to turn to for specific issues or may duplicate efforts.

Choice C: Privacy laws

Reason: Privacy laws, such as HIPAA in the United States, are designed to protect patient information. While they impose certain restrictions on information sharing, they are not a primary barrier to interprofessional communication. Healthcare teams can still communicate effectively within the boundaries of these laws by ensuring that patient information is shared appropriately and securely.

Choice D: Burnout

Reason: Burnout is a significant issue in healthcare, affecting the well-being and performance of healthcare professionals. However, it is more of a personal and systemic issue rather than a direct barrier to interprofessional communication. Burnout can indirectly affect communication by reducing the overall effectiveness and engagement of team members.

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect because administering an antiemetic to a client who has post chemotherapy nausea is not medically futile. It is a supportive measure that can help the client to manage the side effects of chemotherapy and improve their comfort and quality of life.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect because administering a narcotic analgesic to a client who has end stage cancer is not medically futile. It is a palliative measure that can help the client to relieve their pain and suffering and improve their comfort and quality of life.
Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect because administering oral care for a client who has post chemotherapy mucositis is not medically futile. It is a preventive measure that can help the client to avoid infections and complications and improve their oral health and hygiene.
Choice D reason: This statement is correct because administering chemotherapy to a client who has metastatic cancer is medically futile. It is a curative measure that has no reasonable chance of achieving its intended goal of eradicating the cancer or prolonging the client's survival. It may also cause harm or distress to the client by exposing them to unnecessary risks and side effects.