Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

What is an appropriate goal for a rehabilitation nurse when caring for a stroke patient?

1. Maximizing physical independence

2. Reducing hospital stay

3. Increasing medication adherence

4. Providing only educational resources

The correct answer is: Maximizing physical independence

Maximizing physical independence is a central goal for a rehabilitation nurse caring for a stroke patient. After a stroke, individuals often experience varied degrees of physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments. The role of the rehabilitation nurse is to support the patient in regaining as much functional ability as possible, which involves assessing the patient's current capabilities and needs, developing a personalized rehabilitation plan, and implementing interventions that encourage practice and mastery of essential skills. Physical independence encompasses activities of daily living, such as walking, dressing, bathing, and self-feeding, which are crucial for overall quality of life. By focusing on this goal, the nurse can help the patient gain confidence and autonomy, making the rehabilitation process more effective and rewarding for them. While the other options may play a role in comprehensive care, they do not directly align with the primary aim of rehabilitation nursing. Reducing hospital stay may be a benefit of effective rehabilitation but is not a defined goal of therapy for the patient. Increasing medication adherence is important for overall health management but does not specifically address the unique challenges faced by stroke patients in terms of physical recovery. Providing educational resources is beneficial; however, it should be part of a more holistic approach focused on enhancing physical independence, rather than being an isolated goal.