Nursing Elites

1. A technique used to eliminate negative behavior by ignoring the behavior is known as __________.

• A. Punishment
• B. Extinction
• C. Shaping
• D. Equity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Extinction.' Extinction is a behavioral psychology technique where undesirable behavior is ignored, leading to its eventual decrease or elimination. This process involves withholding reinforcement that was previously maintaining the behavior. Choice A, 'Punishment,' involves applying negative consequences to reduce unwanted behavior, which is different from extinction. Choice C, 'Shaping,' is a method of gradually molding or reinforcing behaviors to reach a desired behavior, not ignoring negative behavior. Choice D, 'Equity,' refers to fairness and equal treatment, which is unrelated to eliminating negative behavior through ignoring it.

2. Which of the following is a common characteristic of a high reliability organization (HRO)?

• A. Flexibility
• B. Reluctance to simplify
• C. Preoccupation with failure
• D. Deference to expertise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A common characteristic of a high reliability organization (HRO) is a preoccupation with failure. HROs focus on identifying and addressing potential failure points to prevent errors and maintain high levels of safety and reliability. This mindset helps them anticipate and mitigate risks proactively, leading to better outcomes and performance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While flexibility, reluctance to simplify, and deference to expertise may be important in various contexts, they are not the primary defining characteristics of a high reliability organization. The core focus of HROs is on continuously monitoring for potential failures and working to prevent them.

3. Horizontal violence may be observed among staff interactions and causes stress among staff. To minimize stress associated with such interactions, nurses can: (Select all that apply.)

• A. Encourage venting as a way to express feelings.
• B. Take control of the situation by being assertive.
• C. Ignore staff who are volatile.
• D. Avoid interactions with angry staff.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To minimize stress associated with horizontal violence among staff interactions, nurses should take control of the situation by being assertive. Being assertive allows nurses to address the issues causing stress in a constructive and professional manner. Encouraging venting without addressing the underlying problems may not resolve the situation effectively. Ignoring staff who are volatile can escalate the issue further, and avoiding interactions with angry staff does not address the root cause of the problem. Therefore, being assertive and addressing the situation directly is the most effective approach to minimize stress and promote a healthy work environment.

4. After examining her client's abdomen and noting assessment of significant findings, even though the client says it doesn't hurt, the nurse says to a colleague, 'I think something is going on here; I am going to investigate further.' This nurse is using:

• A. Deductive reasoning.
• B. Intuition.
• C. Trial and error.
• D. Modified scientific method.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Intuition. In this scenario, the nurse is relying on intuition, which refers to a 'gut feeling' or instinctive understanding without the conscious use of reasoning. Deductive reasoning (choice A) involves drawing specific conclusions from general principles. Trial and error (choice C) is a problem-solving method that involves trying various methods until the correct one is found. The modified scientific method (choice D) refers to a structured approach to conducting experiments in a scientific setting, which is not applicable in this situation where the nurse is relying on a hunch or intuition.

5. What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?

• A. To assign blame for errors
• B. To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes
• C. To improve patient satisfaction
• D. To analyze the financial impact of errors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes.' Root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare aims to delve deep into the factors contributing to an error to prevent its recurrence. Choice A is incorrect as RCA focuses on identifying system issues, not blaming individuals. Choice C is incorrect as while improving patient satisfaction may result from the process, it is not the primary goal. Choice D is incorrect as the main focus of RCA is not financial analysis but rather improving patient safety.

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