Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What do nursing theories provide as a framework in various PMH settings?

1. A conceptual basis for nursing practice

2. A set of rigid protocols

3. A singular approach to patient care

4. An extensive list of medications

The correct answer is: A conceptual basis for nursing practice

Nursing theories offer a conceptual basis for nursing practice, serving as a foundation that guides nurses in their decision-making and clinical judgments across various settings, including psychiatric mental health (PMH) care. These theories help in understanding patient needs, shaping nursing roles, and facilitating communication among healthcare teams. By utilizing these theoretical frameworks, nurses can tailor their interventions to individual patient scenarios and apply evidence-based practices, ensuring a holistic approach to care. In contrast, other options like rigid protocols, singular approaches to patient care, or an extensive list of medications don't reflect the flexibility and breadth that nursing theories provide. Rigid protocols may limit clinical judgment and adaptability, a singular approach overlooks the diversity of patient experiences, and a list of medications fails to encompass the broader aspects of patient care that theories address.