Which of the following is a limitation of computers?

Appeared in: UPRVUNL - 2021

Explanation

The fundamental limitation of computers is their lack of genuine intelligence or consciousness.
Computers operate by executing pre-programmed instructions and cannot think, reason, or use common sense independently.
They are dependent on human input and programming; this is often summarized by the principle of GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out).
Unlike humans, computers do not possess creativity, intuition, or the ability to handle unforeseen situations outside their programming.

Option B: This is likely a typo for 'Storage Capacity'. High storage capacity is a major strength of computers, not a limitation. They can store vast amounts of data.
Option C: Reliability is a key strength of computers. They can perform tasks consistently and without fatigue for long durations.
Option D: Accuracy is a significant advantage of computers. They can perform complex calculations with high precision and minimal error.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Limitations of Computers as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In nursing informatics, while Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and clinical decision support systems are powerful tools, they cannot replace a nurse's clinical judgment. The computer can flag a drug interaction but cannot assess the patient's unique context or nuanced presentation.
Nurses must critically evaluate computer-generated alerts and data, understanding that the system is a tool to aid, not replace, their professional reasoning and critical thinking.
What if? If a patient's vital signs are entered incorrectly into the EHR (e.g., a typo), the computer will process the incorrect data accurately. It cannot 'think' that the value seems physiologically impossible. The nurse's critical thinking is the safety net to catch such errors.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'limitations of computers'.
Read each option and evaluate it as either a strength or a limitation.
Option A, 'Inability to think', is a well-known conceptual limitation.
Options C ('Reliability') and D ('Accuracy') are defining strengths of computers.
Analyze Option B ('Shortage capacity'). Recognize this is likely a typo for 'Storage capacity', which is also a strength. Even if taken literally, it's not a universal limitation.
Conclude that the only true limitation listed is the inability to think.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Textbook of Nursing Management and Leadership I. Clemen — Subpart C (pp 655-967 of 982) p. 36-38

Practise the full UPRVUNL - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.