Nursing Elites

1. A Nurse Manager completes an interruption log and identifies two staff members who take an inordinate amount of time with drop-in issues that are not urgent. What are some methods to address this behavior in an attempt to better manage time? (Select all that apply.)

• A. Designate specific time slots for drop-in visits.
• B. Position the desk chair so it is not facing the hallway.
• C. Communicate with staff about using e-mail for non-urgent matters to improve time management.
• D. When staff members drop in, the manager should stand and remain standing during the conversation.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Designating specific time slots for drop-in visits helps in managing interruptions effectively by consolidating them into designated periods. This approach allows the Nurse Manager to allocate focused time for addressing these issues without disrupting workflow. Option B, repositioning the desk chair, is not a standard strategy for managing time or interruptions. Option C, promoting the use of e-mail for non-urgent matters, may help in some cases but may not entirely address the behavior of extended drop-in visits. Option D, standing during conversations, may not be practical for longer discussions and does not provide a structured approach to address time management issues.

2. If the nurse and nurse manager did not resolve the situation related to the physician's report about the nurse's performance, what is the length of time allowed for the nurse to submit an appeal?

• A. 10 days
• B. 15 days
• C. 20 days
• D. 30 days

Correct answer: A

Rationale: If the informal discussion between the nurse and nurse manager does not resolve the issue regarding the physician's report on the nurse's performance, the nurse can submit a written appeal within 10 days, according to the healthcare facility policy. This 10-day timeframe ensures a prompt resolution of disputes and maintains clear communication channels within the healthcare setting. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they exceed the time limit allowed for the nurse to submit an appeal, which is specified to be 10 days.

3. A few weeks after an 82-year-old with a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes has been placed on metformin (Glucophage) therapy and taught about appropriate diet and exercise, the home health nurse makes a visit. Which finding by the nurse is most important to discuss with the healthcare provider?

• A. Hemoglobin A1C level is 7.9%.
• B. Last eye exam was 18 months ago.
• C. Glomerular filtration rate is decreased.
• D. Patient has questions about the prescribed diet.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most important finding to discuss with the healthcare provider is the decreased glomerular filtration rate. In patients on metformin therapy, monitoring kidney function is crucial as metformin is primarily excreted through the kidneys. A decreased glomerular filtration rate can lead to metformin accumulation in the body, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious adverse effect. The hemoglobin A1C level being 7.9% indicates poor diabetes control but can be addressed through medication adjustments and lifestyle modifications. The patient needing an eye exam after 18 months is important but not as urgent as discussing the decreased glomerular filtration rate. Patient questions about the prescribed diet can be addressed during the visit without the need for immediate healthcare provider intervention.

4. A nurse manager is considering the variances of the budget. Fewer monies were spent than expected. What type of variance is this?

• A. Unfavorable variance
• B. Favorable variance
• C. Dependent variance
• D. Independent variance

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, favorable variance. When fewer funds are spent than expected, it indicates efficient budget management, making it a favorable outcome. Choice A, unfavorable variance, is incorrect as it would apply if more money than expected was spent. Choices C and D, dependent variance and independent variance, are unrelated terms in the context of budget variances and do not apply to the situation described.

5. Which of the following is an example of voluntary absenteeism?

• A. Staying home for a sick child
• B. Staying home for a funeral
• C. Staying home to run errands or finish housework
• D. Staying home for sickness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Staying home to run errands or finish housework.' Voluntary absenteeism refers to absences that are within the employee's control. Running errands or completing housework are choices an employee makes, unlike being absent due to sickness or a funeral, which are events beyond the employee's control. Choices A, B, and D involve reasons for absence that are not voluntary as they are influenced by external circumstances, such as illness or family emergencies.

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