Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary focus of a performance appraisal for nursing staff?

• A. To identify areas for salary increases
• B. To evaluate overall job performance
• C. To provide feedback on clinical skills
• D. To determine eligibility for promotions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary focus of a performance appraisal for nursing staff is to provide feedback on clinical skills, identify areas for improvement, and support professional development. While salary increases, overall job performance evaluation, and promotions may be factors considered during a performance appraisal, the primary goal is to assess and enhance clinical skills to ensure high-quality patient care.

2. Which of the following are managerial functions, according to Mintzberg? (EXCEPT)

• A. Leading and linking at the people level
• B. Communicating and controlling at the information level
• C. Deciding pay structures
• D. Doing at the action level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Mintzberg believed that managing involves communicating and controlling at the information level, leading and linking at the people level, and doing at the action level. Choice A is correct as it aligns with Mintzberg's concept of leading and linking at the people level. Choice B is correct as it aligns with Mintzberg's concept of communicating and controlling at the information level. Choice D is correct as it aligns with Mintzberg's concept of doing at the action level. Choice C, deciding pay structures, is not a managerial function according to Mintzberg's model, making it the exception.

3. The unit manager of a 32-bed medical-surgical unit allows the staff nurses to do self-governance for scheduling, client care assignments, and committee work. The manager would be considered which type of leader?

• A. Autocratic
• B. Democratic
• C. Bureaucratic
• D. Laissez-faire

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Laissez-faire. In a laissez-faire leadership style, the manager exerts very little control and allows the staff to have a high degree of autonomy in decision-making and problem-solving. This type of leader provides guidance when needed but largely leaves the decision-making process to the staff. Autocratic leadership (choice A) is characterized by centralizing decision-making authority, democratic leadership (choice B) involves shared decision-making, and bureaucratic leadership (choice C) relies on adherence to rules and procedures.

4. The staff nurse delegates AM care for two patients to the UAP (Unlicensed Assistive Person). What principle of delegation is the nurse following?

• A. Delegation requires a situation with clearly defined superiors.
• B. Delegation can only exist with a subordinate.
• C. Delegation is a tool used by various healthcare professionals.
• D. You can delegate only those tasks.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'You can delegate only those tasks.' Delegation in nursing involves transferring responsibility for the performance of a task while retaining accountability for the outcome. The principle of delegation does not require a situation with clearly defined superiors (choice A). Delegation can exist not only with a subordinate but also with colleagues or other healthcare team members (choice B). Delegation is not exclusive to nurses and is a tool used by various healthcare professionals (choice C). Therefore, the best choice is D as it accurately reflects the principle of delegation in nursing.

5. What is the primary role of the nurse manager in risk management?

• A. Ensure compliance with regulations
• B. Report incidents to higher authorities
• C. Minimize risks to patients and staff
• D. Educate staff about safe practices

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Minimize risks to patients and staff. Nurse managers play a crucial role in risk management by identifying potential risks, implementing strategies to reduce or eliminate these risks, and ensuring a safe environment for patients and staff. Choice A is incorrect because while ensuring compliance with regulations is important, the primary role of the nurse manager in risk management is to minimize risks. Choice B is incorrect as reporting incidents is part of risk management but not the primary role of a nurse manager. Choice D is also a responsibility of nurse managers, but educating staff about safe practices is not the primary focus when it comes to risk management.

Similar Questions