what is the main purpose of a clinical audit
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

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

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. One of the most useful tools to determine reasons for turnover is:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Surveys are one of the most effective tools to determine reasons for turnover because they allow employees to provide feedback anonymously, leading to more truthful responses. While questioning can be part of the process, surveys provide a structured and standardized way to collect data. Employee forums may not always elicit honest responses due to peer pressure or fear of repercussions. Telephone calls may not reach all employees and do not guarantee anonymity, potentially leading to biased or incomplete information.

3. Which of the following best describes the concept of shared decision-making in healthcare?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Shared decision-making in healthcare involves a collaborative process between patients and providers to make healthcare decisions together. This approach considers the patient's preferences, values, and the best available evidence to reach a decision that aligns with the patient's goals. Choice A is incorrect because shared decision-making does not involve patients making decisions on their own. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a paternalistic approach where providers dictate treatment plans to patients without involving them in the decision-making process. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the use of evidence-based guidelines, which is important but not the sole focus of shared decision-making.

4. The problem of overrating staff performance is called ___________ .

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Leniency error.' Leniency error occurs when a manager tends to overrate staff performance, giving higher ratings than deserved. Choice A, 'Recency error,' refers to the tendency to focus only on recent behaviors or events when evaluating performance. Choice B, 'Absolute judgment,' is not directly related to overrating staff performance; it refers to making evaluations without considering the context or comparison points. Choice C, 'Halo error,' involves allowing one positive aspect of an individual to overshadow other factors in performance evaluation, which is different from overrating overall staff performance.

5. A nurse is completing an admission assessment for a client who reports vomiting and diarrhea for the past 3 days. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, the nurse should expect findings such as dehydration, which can lead to hypovolemia and subsequent increased heart rate and decreased blood pressure. A blood pressure of 144/82 mm Hg is indicative of possible dehydration in this client. Urine specific gravity is typically increased in dehydrated individuals, so choices B and D are incorrect. Neck vein distention is not a typical finding associated with vomiting and diarrhea; therefore, choice C is also incorrect.

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