Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What type of relationship exists when one nurse practitioner seeks advice from another about managing a patient?

1. Collaborative relationship

2. Consultative relationship

3. Referral relationship

4. Formal relationship

The correct answer is: Consultative relationship

In the context of nursing practice, a consultative relationship is characterized by one nurse practitioner seeking specialized knowledge or guidance from another practitioner regarding patient management. This situation typically arises when the first practitioner requires a deeper understanding of a specific condition, treatment options, or best practices that the consulting practitioner possesses. In a consultative relationship, the focus is on advice and expertise rather than direct patient transfer or a formalized partnership. The consulting nurse practitioner provides insights that can enhance the patient’s care without necessarily taking on the patient themselves. This relationship encourages collaboration and shared decision-making, which can ultimately improve patient outcomes by leveraging the strengths and knowledge of both practitioners. In contrast, collaborative relationships are more about mutual participation in patient care, where both practitioners are equally involved in decision-making for the patient. A referral relationship involves transferring the care of a patient from one practitioner to another, often due to the need for services outside the scope of practice of the referring practitioner. Lastly, a formal relationship implies a structured partnership or agreement between practitioners, which does not accurately describe the spontaneous nature of seeking advice or consultation.