what is the primary goal of a root cause analysis rca in healthcare

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Proctored

1. What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?

A. To assign blame for errors
B. To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes
C. To improve patient satisfaction
D. To analyze the financial impact of errors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes.' Root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare aims to delve deep into the factors contributing to an error to prevent its recurrence. Choice A is incorrect as RCA focuses on identifying system issues, not blaming individuals. Choice C is incorrect as while improving patient satisfaction may result from the process, it is not the primary goal. Choice D is incorrect as the main focus of RCA is not financial analysis but rather improving patient safety.

2. As a new nurse on a pediatric unit, you must work nights and you have minimal time to spend with your children. Your colleague observes that you speak abruptly with parents and you become easily annoyed when the patients cry or when they are demanding. You realize you are becoming increasingly more distressed and that you have no time with your children and, as a result you: (Select all that apply.)

A. Express negative comments to colleagues about patients and parents who annoy you.
B. Ask the nurse manager to have a schedule with an equal number of day and night shifts so that you can be with your children.
C. Call off sick as frequently as you can without violating policies so that you have more time with your children.
D. Minimize your communication with patients and parents so you do not offend them.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Asking the nurse manager for a schedule with an equal number of day and night shifts is a proactive and constructive approach to address the issue of having minimal time with your children. This solution aims to balance work and personal life effectively. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Expressing negative comments about patients and parents (Choice A) is unprofessional and can create a negative work environment. Calling off sick frequently (Choice C) is irresponsible and violates work policies, leading to potential disciplinary actions. Minimizing communication with patients and parents (Choice D) is not a suitable approach as effective communication is essential in healthcare to provide optimal care and support to patients and their families.

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

A. The process by which patients make healthcare decisions on their own
B. A collaborative process that allows patients and providers to make healthcare decisions together
C. A method for providers to dictate treatment plans to patients
D. The use of evidence-based guidelines to make healthcare decisions

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. A 38-year-old patient who has type 1 diabetes plans to swim laps daily at 1:00 PM. The clinic nurse will plan to teach the patient to

A. check glucose levels before, during, and after swimming.
B. delay eating the noon meal until after swimming.
C. increase the morning dose of neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin.
D. time the morning insulin injection so that the peak occurs while swimming.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to teach the patient to check glucose levels before, during, and after swimming. This is important to monitor blood sugar levels and make adjustments as needed to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Delaying eating the noon meal until after swimming (Choice B) is not advisable as the patient needs proper nutrition both before and after exercise. Increasing the morning dose of NPH insulin (Choice C) should not be done without proper medical advice as it can lead to hypoglycemia. Timing the morning insulin injection to coincide with swimming (Choice D) is risky as the peak effect of insulin may lead to hypoglycemia during swimming.

5. A 28-year-old male patient with type 1 diabetes reports how he manages his exercise and glucose control. Which behavior indicates that the nurse should implement additional teaching?

A. The patient always carries hard candies when engaging in exercise.
B. The patient goes for a vigorous walk when his glucose is 200 mg/dL.
C. The patient has a peanut butter sandwich before going for a bicycle ride.
D. The patient increases daily exercise when ketones are present in the urine.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because increasing exercise when ketones are present in the urine is inappropriate and potentially dangerous for a patient with type 1 diabetes. This behavior can worsen the ketosis and lead to further complications. Choices A, B, and C demonstrate appropriate self-management strategies for a patient with type 1 diabetes. Carrying hard candies during exercise can help prevent hypoglycemia, going for a walk with a glucose level of 200 mg/dL can help lower blood sugar, and having a snack before physical activity can provide necessary energy.