organizations are made up of intertwined links and diversified choices that generate unanticipated consequences this defines which of the following th

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

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. What is the term used for assigning a rating based on an overall impression?

A. Recency error.
B. Leniency error.
C. Absolute judgment.
D. Halo error.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Halo error.' Halo error occurs when a rating is given based on a general impression rather than specific performance criteria. Choice A, 'Recency error,' refers to rating an employee based on recent events rather than the entire evaluation period. Choice B, 'Leniency error,' is when a manager consistently rates employees higher than they deserve. Choice C, 'Absolute judgment,' involves evaluating based on established standards rather than an overall impression.

3. Which of the following best describes the concept of total quality management (TQM)?

A. Top-down management
B. Employee-centered approach
C. Continuous improvement
D. Quality control

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Continuous improvement. Total quality management (TQM) focuses on continuously improving all aspects of healthcare delivery to enhance patient care, safety, and overall quality. Choice A, 'Top-down management,' does not capture the essence of TQM, which involves involvement at all levels of an organization. Choice B, 'Employee-centered approach,' while important, is not the defining characteristic of TQM. Choice D, 'Quality control,' is a component of TQM but does not fully encompass its comprehensive approach to quality improvement.

4. 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.

5. One reason for conducting a comprehensive medical exam on an applicant is:

A. It is needed to protect the organization from legal actions.
B. It is required after a strenuous interview.
C. It is mandated by law.
D. It is necessary to screen for disabilities that may impact employment.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Conducting a comprehensive medical exam on an applicant is crucial to protect the organization from legal actions. This examination helps ensure that the applicant meets the health standards required for the job, reducing the risk of potential liabilities for the organization related to health issues that may arise during employment. Choice B is incorrect because the exam is not a follow-up to a strenuous interview. Choice C is incorrect as not all comprehensive medical exams are mandated by law; they are often part of an organization's policy. Choice D is incorrect as the primary goal of the exam is to assess the applicant's health status in relation to the job requirements, not to screen for disabilities.