Choice A rationale:
Affiliation with a medical or nursing school can offer some benefits, but it's not the most crucial factor to consider when seeking a new job.
Nurses in these facilities may have opportunities for professional development and involvement in research, but these benefits might not be available to all nurses.
The quality of the work environment, staffing levels, and support for nurses can vary significantly in facilities affiliated with schools.
Prioritizing Magnet status ensures a focus on nursing excellence and a commitment to providing a supportive work environment.
Choice B rationale:
Having the latest technology can be appealing, but it doesn't guarantee a positive work experience for nurses.
The most important factors for job satisfaction and quality patient care are often related to the work environment, staffing levels, and leadership support.
Magnet hospitals prioritize these factors, leading to better outcomes for both nurses and patients.
Choice C rationale:
Inquiring about nurse-patient ratios is essential, but it's not the only indicator of a positive work environment.
Magnet hospitals typically have favorable nurse-patient ratios, but they also excel in other areas that contribute to job satisfaction and quality care.
These areas include: shared governance, leadership support, professional development opportunities, and a focus on evidence-based practice.
Choice D rationale:
Magnet status is the highest recognition a hospital can achieve for nursing excellence.
It signifies a commitment to: quality patient care, positive work environments for nurses, professional development, and shared governance.
Research consistently demonstrates that Magnet hospitals have: lower nurse turnover rates, higher patient satisfaction scores, and better patient outcomes.
Seeking employment in a Magnet hospital is the most beneficial advice for a nurse looking for a job that prioritizes nursing excellence, job satisfaction, and quality patient care.

Choice A rationale:
While PICCs are typically intended for shorter-term use (up to 12 weeks), the fact that a PICC has been in place for 4 weeks is not, in itself, an immediate cause for concern. Regular assessment of the catheter and site is crucial, but the duration of placement alone does not warrant immediate attention.
Choice B rationale:
While it's generally recommended to change PICC dressings every 7 days, a dressing that is 3 days old is not an immediate emergency. The nurse should prioritize changing the dressing as soon as possible, but it does not require the same level of urgency as other potential complications.
Choice C rationale:
A missing securement device is a concern because it can increase the risk of catheter dislodgement or migration. However, it does not necessarily indicate an immediate threat to the patient's well-being. The nurse should promptly address the missing securement device, but it would not be the most pressing issue compared to swelling in the extremity.
Choice D rationale:
Swelling in the upper extremity where the PICC is located is a significant finding that demands immediate attention. It can be a sign of several serious complications, including:
Thrombosis: A blood clot within the vein, which can obstruct blood flow and lead to pain, swelling, and potentially more severe consequences like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
Infection: Inflammation and infection at the insertion site or within the bloodstream, which can cause swelling, redness, warmth, and pain. If left untreated, infection can progress to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
Phlebitis: Inflammation of the vein, which can cause pain, redness, and swelling along the vein.
Infiltration: Leakage of fluids or medications into the surrounding tissue, leading to swelling and discomfort.
Prompt action is crucial in these cases to prevent further complications and ensure patient safety. The nurse should immediately notify the appropriate healthcare provider, initiate necessary interventions, and closely monitor the patient's condition.