Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

What behavior is exhibited by a nurse not following updated guidelines for preventing postoperative constipation?

1. Resistance to change

2. Frustration with more work

3. Lack of nursing competence

4. Lack of knowledge

The correct answer is: Lack of knowledge

The behavior of not following updated guidelines for preventing postoperative constipation demonstrates a lack of knowledge. When nurses do not adhere to current evidence-based practices, it can often be traced back to not being fully informed about the most recent guidelines or recommendations. A lack of knowledge in this context means that the nurse may not be aware of the latest techniques or strategies that have been proven to effectively prevent postoperative constipation, which is a significant concern in patient care. It's essential for nurses to stay updated on best practices through continuous education and training to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Additionally, while resistance to change, frustration with increased workload, and lack of competence could be factors that influence a nurse's practice, they are not the primary cause when discussing adherence to updated guidelines. These other factors may stem from personal or systemic issues, but they don't directly indicate whether the nurse knows or does not know the appropriate measures to take. Therefore, the focus on knowledge is crucial, as it points to a fundamental aspect of professional nursing practice: staying informed about advancements in care protocols.