Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

What aspect of rehabilitation is emphasized in the role of a nurse as a change agent?

1. Creating obstacles for patient improvement

2. Helping establish goals for patient recovery

3. Monitoring patient for infection

4. Providing restrictions to patient activities

The correct answer is: Helping establish goals for patient recovery

The role of a nurse as a change agent in rehabilitation focuses significantly on helping establish goals for patient recovery. This involves collaborating with patients and their families to determine realistic and achievable objectives that are tailored to the individual’s needs, preferences, and capabilities. Establishing goals is a pivotal part of the rehabilitation process because it motivates patients, provides direction for treatment, and encourages active participation in their care. By involving patients in the goal-setting process, nurses can facilitate a sense of ownership over their recovery journey, enhance their self-efficacy, and ultimately contribute to better health outcomes. This approach aligns with the principles of patient-centered care, where the preferences and values of the patient are prioritized in the rehabilitation plan. Goals may include improving physical function, enhancing independence, or managing chronic conditions, all of which are crucial for successful rehabilitation. In contrast, other options do not align with the proactive and supportive role of a change agent. Creating obstacles would hinder progress rather than support it. Monitoring for infections is certainly a necessary nursing task but is more about maintaining health and safety than facilitating change in the rehabilitation context. Providing restrictions to patient activities can often be counterproductive to the goals of rehabilitation, which emphasize empowerment and independence rather than limitation.