Nursing Elites

1. Organizations are made up of intertwined links and diversified choices that generate unanticipated consequences. This defines which of the following theories?

• A. Contingency theory
• B. Closed system theory
• C. Open system theory
• D. Chaos theory

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Chaos theory. Chaos theory is characterized by organizations that are made up of intertwined links and diversified choices that generate unanticipated consequences. Contingency theory (choice A) is based on the idea that there is no one best way to organize and manage a corporation. Closed system theory (choice B) refers to systems that are closed off from the outside environment and do not interact with it. Open system theory (choice C) views organizations as open systems that interact with their external environment.

2. A nurse manager is preparing the budget for the year. The budgeted amounts have been set without regard to changes that may occur during the year. What type of budget is the manager preparing?

• A. Fixed budget
• B. Zero-based budget
• C. Variable budget
• D. Operating budget

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fixed budget. A fixed budget is one where the budgeted amounts are set without considering changes that may occur during the year. This type of budget is based on the assumption that the business environment will remain stable. Choice B, Zero-based budget, involves setting the budget at zero and justifying all expenses. Choice C, Variable budget, adjusts based on changes in activity levels. Choice D, Operating budget, is a comprehensive projection of all revenue and expenses for the upcoming period.

3. Politics is a means for influencing events and the decisions of others. The nurse manager who consistently reminds the staff that 'there is no I in team' and periodically brings treats for the staff is using:

• A. Image enhancement
• B. Political skills
• C. Reward power
• D. Expert power

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Political skills. Politics involve interpersonal endeavors, collective activities, analysis, planning, and managing image. In this scenario, the nurse manager is skillfully building team morale and influencing staff dynamics by emphasizing teamwork ('there is no I in team') and boosting morale through occasional treats. This demonstrates the use of political skills to influence and manage relationships within the team. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the manager's actions are not solely focused on image enhancement, reward power, or expert power. Instead, they are aimed at fostering teamwork and boosting staff morale.

4. The changes brought forth by the state boards of nursing are an example of which type of change agent?

• A. Resistance
• B. Empirical–rational
• C. Normative–reeducative
• D. Power–coercive

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The changes implemented by state boards of nursing typically fall under the category of Power–coercive change agents. State boards of nursing have the authority to enforce changes through regulations and policies, making use of their legitimate power. Resistance (choice A) is not the correct answer as it refers to opposition to change rather than the entity driving change. Empirical–rational (choice B) focuses on convincing individuals through empirical evidence and rational arguments, which is not reflective of the state boards' authority. Normative–reeducative (choice C) involves persuading individuals to change based on shared values and beliefs, which is not the primary approach of state boards of nursing.

5. What is the process of helping an employee to improve performance called?

• A. Coaching
• B. Disciplining
• C. Mentoring
• D. Peer reviewing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Coaching. Coaching involves providing guidance and support to help an employee enhance their performance by focusing on skill development, addressing weaknesses, and achieving professional growth. Mentoring (choice C) is about guiding and nurturing a less experienced individual, not specifically aimed at improving performance. Peer reviewing (choice D) involves colleagues evaluating each other's performance, not necessarily focused on improvement. Disciplining (choice B) is taking corrective actions in response to policy violations or performance issues, which is different from the process of helping an employee improve their performance.

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