what is the main purpose of a clinical audit

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

1. What is the main purpose of a clinical audit?

A. To measure patient satisfaction
B. To evaluate the effectiveness of clinical practices
C. To identify areas for improvement
D. To standardize patient care protocols

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main purpose of a clinical audit is to identify areas for improvement in clinical practices. While patient satisfaction might be a component evaluated during an audit, the primary goal is to ensure that care is safe, effective, and patient-centered, rather than solely focusing on satisfaction. Evaluating the effectiveness of clinical practices is a related but more specific goal compared to the broader aim of identifying areas for improvement. Standardizing patient care protocols can be a result of a clinical audit, but it is not the main purpose, which is to pinpoint areas needing enhancement.

2. Which of the following are significant benefits to an organization that is considering adoption of a practice partnership model? (Select all that apply.)

A. Clients express reduced satisfaction.
B. It is less expensive to implement than other models.
C. Continuity of care is facilitated.
D. Leadership is well accepted.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Continuity of care is facilitated. One of the significant benefits of a practice partnership model is that it facilitates continuity of care, which can lead to better outcomes for clients. Choice A is incorrect as clients would not express reduced satisfaction with this model; in fact, greater client satisfaction is a benefit. Choice B is incorrect because the cost-effectiveness of the model is not specified or guaranteed. Choice D is incorrect as the acceptance of leadership is not explicitly mentioned as a significant benefit of this model.

3. An RN is working through an ethical dilemma involving a patient on his unit. He has just identified the decision makers involved. Which step best describes the current stage the RN is working through?

A. Assessment
B. Diagnosis
C. Planning
D. Implementation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Planning. In the planning phase of addressing an ethical dilemma, the goals of treatment are established, decision makers are identified, and all available options are reviewed. The assessment phase involves collecting data and information, the diagnosis phase involves analyzing the information to identify the problem, and the implementation phase involves carrying out the chosen plan of action. Therefore, in this scenario, where decision makers are being identified, the RN is in the planning stage.

4. Which of the following is true regarding health care systems today?

A. They are all managed care organizations.
B. They are all privately owned.
C. Only HMOs are profitable.
D. There are multiple types of organizations.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'There are multiple types of organizations.' This statement is true as there are various health care delivery systems in today's world, including but not limited to managed care organizations, privately owned facilities, and other models. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because not all health care systems are managed care organizations, privately owned, or only profitable if they are HMOs. Health care systems can vary in ownership, management, and profitability, making choice D the most accurate.

5. Under which category does a violation of the nurse practice act fall?

A. Juvenile
B. Felony
C. Misdemeanor
D. Tort

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A violation of the nurse practice act falls under the category of a felony. Felony offenses are the most serious and can include acts like homicide and violations of professional practice regulations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because violations of the nurse practice act are considered more severe than misdemeanors, torts, or related to juvenile cases.