Hardware that allows a user to send and receive information over the phone or cable line?

AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-2)

Computer and Nursing Information

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Raipur NO - 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

A modem is a hardware device that connects a computer or other device to the internet.
Its name comes from its function: MOdulator-DEModulator.
It modulates digital signals from a computer into analog signals for transmission over phone or cable lines, and demodulates incoming analog signals back into digital form.

Option B: Multimedia refers to content (like video, audio, text) and not the hardware used for data transmission.
Option C: A monitor is an output device (a screen) for displaying information. It does not handle network communication.
Option D: A mouse is a standard input device used to control a cursor on a screen. It has no role in sending or receiving data over a network.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Function of Computer Networking Hardware as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In modern healthcare, understanding basic IT components is essential. Nurses frequently use computers for Electronic Health Records (EHR), telemedicine, and accessing clinical information systems. A stable internet connection, enabled by a modem, is the backbone of these technologies.
A reliable modem and internet connection are critical for telenursing and remote patient monitoring, allowing for real-time data transmission of vital signs and video consultations.
What if the connection is slow? If a nurse observes persistent network issues (e.g., slow EHR access, dropped video calls), they should know to report it to IT support. The issue could be with the modem, router, or the internet service itself, and troubleshooting is necessary to ensure continuity of care.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the question carefully to identify the core function being described: 'send and receive information over the phone or cable line'.
Analyze the keywords: 'Hardware', 'send and receive', 'phone or cable line'. This points to a device involved in network communication.
Evaluate each option based on this function.
Option A, 'Modem', is short for Modulator-Demodulator, which is precisely the function of converting signals for transmission over lines. This is a strong candidate.
Consider the other options: 'Multimedia' is content, 'Monitor' is a display, and 'Mouse' is an input device. None of these fit the description of a network communication device.
Conclude that 'Modem' is the only option that matches the described function.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Textbook of Nursing Management and Leadership I. Clemen — Subpart C (pp 655-967 of 982) p. 37-39

E6 Nursing Education & Educational TechnologySuresh k Sharma (pp 21-557 of 572) p. 336-338