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. "PAD does not allow a client to choose someone to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they are unable to do so." PADs can include the designation of a health care proxy or durable power of attorney for health care decisions.
B. "PAD is not a legally binding document, like a living will." PADs are legally recognized in many jurisdictions and serve a similar purpose to living wills for psychiatric care.
C. "PAD is used by the majority of clients who have a mental illness." While beneficial, PADs are not widely used by most individuals with mental illness.
D. "PAD can include preferences for treatment, such as medications and preferred providers." PADs allow clients to outline their treatment preferences, including medications and preferred health care providers, in case they lose decision-making capacity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Resolving insurance issues : Insurance issues are typically handled by social workers or case managers, not bedside nurses.
B. Providing case management: General mental health nurses can provide case management, which includes coordinating care, making referrals, and advocating for resources.
C. Determining a mental health diagnosis : Only advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), psychiatrists, and psychologists can diagnose mental health conditions.
D. Securing affordable housing for clients: Securing housing is a role of social workers, not nurses. Nurses may refer clients to resources but do not secure housing directly.
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.