A nurse is searching for a new job. Which of the following is a good recommendation for a nurse who is searching for a job using the internet?

A. To facilitate weaning off the mechanical ventilator. While PEEP is an important component of mechanical ventilation, its primary function is not to facilitate weaning. Instead, it improves oxygenation by preventing alveolar collapse. Weaning involves gradually reducing ventilatory support, but PEEP is typically adjusted based on oxygenation needs rather than as a direct step in weaning.
B. To decrease trapped oxygen in the alveoli. PEEP does not decrease trapped oxygen; instead, it maintains alveolar patency and prevents atelectasis. In conditions like ARDS, alveoli tend to collapse due to fluid accumulation and inflammation, and PEEP helps counteract this collapse to improve gas exchange. Reducing "trapped" oxygen is not a function of PEEP.
C. To promote independent breathing efforts. PEEP itself does not promote spontaneous breathing; instead, it provides positive pressure at the end of exhalation to improve oxygenation. In fact, high levels of PEEP can suppress spontaneous breathing by increasing intrathoracic pressure, requiring careful adjustment to balance oxygenation and ventilatory effort.
D. To keep the airways and small lung spaces open. PEEP prevents alveolar collapse by maintaining positive pressure in the lungs at the end of expiration. This improves oxygenation and gas exchange, which is critical in ARDS, where alveoli are prone to collapse due to inflammation and fluid accumulation. Keeping alveoli open reduces shunting and improves oxygen delivery to tissues.

A. Culturally incompetent caregivers. When healthcare providers lack cultural awareness, they may struggle to communicate effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds. This can lead to misunderstandings, decreased trust, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. Patients may feel unheard or disrespected if their cultural beliefs and preferences are not considered. Cultural competence training helps bridge communication gaps and improves patient-provider relationships.
B. Proper training in healthcare communication. Training in communication enhances a provider’s ability to listen actively, use clear language, and foster patient-centered interactions. It helps reduce medical errors, improve patient understanding, and enhance trust in healthcare providers. Since communication training strengthens interactions rather than hindering them, it is not considered a barrier. Well-trained providers can adapt their approach to meet the needs of each patient effectively.
C. Implicit bias. Unconscious biases can negatively affect how healthcare providers interact with patients, leading to disparities in care. Providers may unintentionally assume things about a patient based on stereotypes rather than their individual needs. This can cause miscommunication, lack of trust, and reluctance to seek care. Recognizing and addressing implicit bias is crucial for ensuring equitable and effective communication.
D. Excellent health literacy. High health literacy enables patients to understand medical information, follow treatment plans, and communicate effectively with providers. This reduces confusion, enhances decision-making, and improves health outcomes. Since excellent health literacy helps rather than hinders communication, it is not a barrier. Instead, it empowers patients to engage more actively in their care.
E. Lack of diversity. A lack of diversity in healthcare can result in communication barriers, as providers may be less familiar with different cultural perspectives and language needs. This can lead to misunderstandings, decreased patient satisfaction, and reduced quality of care. A diverse healthcare workforce fosters inclusivity, improves provider-patient communication, and promotes better health outcomes. Encouraging diversity ensures a more culturally competent and responsive healthcare system.