A nurse in a mental health unit is discussing the concepts of competency and capacity with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements by the newly licensed nurse indicates an understanding of the concepts?
"Competency and capacity are often discussed as being the same thing, but they are different."
"Capacity and competency are the same thing and can be used interchangeably."
"A client who has been deemed legally incompetent can provide informed consent for treatment."
"Competency and capacity are rarely a concern when caring for clients who have a mental illness."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Competency and capacity are often discussed as being the same thing, but they are different." Competency is a legal determination made by a court, while capacity is a clinical assessment made by healthcare providers. Although they are related, they are distinct concepts.
B. "Capacity and competency are the same thing and can be used interchangeably." This is incorrect because capacity refers to a person's ability to make a decision at a specific moment, while competency is a broader legal determination regarding decision-making ability.
C. "A client who has been deemed legally incompetent can provide informed consent for treatment." A legally incompetent client cannot provide informed consent. Instead, a legally designated surrogate (guardian or power of attorney) makes medical decisions on their behalf.
D. "Competency and capacity are rarely a concern when caring for clients who have a mental illness." Mental illness can impact decision-making capacity, making assessments crucial. Competency and capacity evaluations are common in mental health settings, especially for clients with cognitive impairment or psychosis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Orientation phase : The orientation phase is when trust begins to form but is not yet solidified.
B. Identification phase: During this phase, the client begins to work with the nurse but has not yet fully accepted interventions.
C. Resolution phase: This phase is the termination of the nurse-client relationship, where trust has already been established.
D. Working phase: The working phase is when trust is fully developed, and the client actively engages in the care process.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Documentation for a mental health client is a defined process based on hospital-specific requirements which highlights client care. While hospitals have policies, documentation must follow legal and ethical guidelines beyond just facility rules.
B. Documentation for a mental health client is focused on the client’s diagnosis, reason for medications, plan of care, and client progression. Documentation includes more than just diagnosis and medication, such as behavior observations, interventions, and responses.
C. Documentation for mental health clients provides a record of the nurse’s awareness of client behaviors, mental status, interventions, and client response. Comprehensive mental health documentation includes behaviors, mental status, interventions, and outcomes.
D. Documentation for a mental health client outlines the client’s therapies, treatments, and needs for discharge planning. This is part of the documentation but does not capture all aspects of mental health nursing records.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.