what is the primary focus of case management in nursing

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

1. What is the primary focus of case management in nursing?

A. Direct patient care
B. Resource management
C. Financial planning
D. Quality assurance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary focus of case management in nursing is direct patient care, which involves providing and coordinating services for patients. While resource management, financial planning, and quality assurance are important aspects of healthcare, they are not the primary focus of case management. Resource management deals with optimizing resources, financial planning involves managing financial aspects, and quality assurance focuses on maintaining high standards of care.

2. What is the main focus of the Six Sigma methodology in healthcare?

A. Reducing healthcare costs
B. Improving patient satisfaction
C. Enhancing clinical decision making
D. Increasing healthcare access

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main focus of the Six Sigma methodology in healthcare is enhancing clinical decision making through data-driven approaches. By using statistical methods and quality improvement tools, Six Sigma aims to reduce errors, improve processes, and enhance overall decision-making in healthcare settings. While reducing healthcare costs and improving patient satisfaction are important goals, they are not the primary focus of Six Sigma in healthcare. Increasing healthcare access is also a valuable objective but not the main focus of the Six Sigma methodology.

3. After change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first?

A. 19-year-old with type 1 diabetes who was admitted with possible dawn phenomenon
B. 35-year-old with type 1 diabetes whose most recent blood glucose reading was 230 mg/dL
C. 60-year-old with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome who has poor skin turgor and dry oral mucosa
D. 68-year-old with type 2 diabetes who has severe peripheral neuropathy and complains of burning foot pain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The patient with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome who presents with poor skin turgor and dry oral mucosa requires immediate attention. These signs indicate severe dehydration and potential electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to serious complications. Assessing this patient first allows for prompt intervention and monitoring to stabilize their condition. Choice A is less urgent as the patient has possible dawn phenomenon, which is a common early-morning rise in blood glucose levels. Choice B, with a blood glucose reading of 230 mg/dL, indicates hyperglycemia but does not present with signs of severe dehydration like the patient in choice C. Choice D, with peripheral neuropathy and foot pain, is important but not as urgent as addressing severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in the patient with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome.

4. Which of the following best defines the role of a nurse practitioner (NP)?

A. Provide direct patient care under the supervision of a physician
B. Diagnose and treat medical conditions independently
C. Assist with administrative tasks in a healthcare setting
D. Specialize in a specific area of nursing practice

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Diagnose and treat medical conditions independently.' Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice registered nurses who are qualified to diagnose and treat medical conditions without direct supervision from a physician. Choice A is incorrect because NPs have the autonomy to provide care independently. Choice C is incorrect as NPs focus on clinical care rather than administrative tasks. Choice D is incorrect as specializing in a specific area of nursing practice refers to a different aspect of advanced nursing roles, such as becoming a clinical nurse specialist.