Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following are important techniques when giving directions to subordinates? (EXCEPT)

• A. Know the context of the instructions.
• B. Use lateral communication.
• C. Verify feedback.
• D. Get positive attention.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Use lateral communication.' When giving directions to subordinates, it is important to know the context of the instructions, get positive attention, verify feedback, and give follow-up communication. Lateral communication refers to communication between individuals or groups on the same organizational level, which is not directly related to giving directions to subordinates. Choices A, C, and D are important techniques that help ensure effective communication with subordinates.

2. An expensive variable in salary budgets is overtime pay. Which of the following is a viable option to reduce overtime?

• A. Limiting overtime for highly paid workers
• B. Reducing the number of beds
• C. Using per diem workers
• D. Refusing to pay overtime

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Using per diem workers. By utilizing per diem workers, organizations can flexibly adjust staffing levels based on demand without incurring overtime costs. This approach helps in managing overtime budgets effectively. Choice A is incorrect because limiting overtime for highly paid workers may not address the root cause of overtime expenses. Choice B is incorrect as reducing the number of beds does not directly impact overtime costs. Choice D is not a practical solution as refusing to pay overtime can lead to legal issues and employee dissatisfaction.

3. Which leadership style is most effective in a crisis situation?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An autocratic leadership style is most effective in a crisis situation because it allows for quick decision-making without the need for extensive consultation or deliberation. In a crisis, immediate and decisive actions are often required to address the situation effectively. Democratic leadership, on the other hand, may slow down the decision-making process due to the need for consensus and input from team members. Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers, which may not always be as effective in a crisis where urgent actions are needed. Laissez-faire leadership, characterized by a hands-off approach, is generally ineffective in crisis situations as it lacks the necessary direction and guidance required to navigate through the challenges efficiently.

4. The staff on a medical-surgical unit is in conflict with the occupational therapy department. What type of communication will be used to discuss the problems?

• A. Downward communication
• B. Lateral communication
• C. Distorted communication
• D. Upward communication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lateral communication. Lateral communication occurs between individuals or departments of the same hierarchical level, making it suitable for addressing conflicts between the staff on a medical-surgical unit and the occupational therapy department. Upward communication involves communication from staff to management or from lower management to middle or upper management. Downward communication is typically directive communication from an authority figure or manager to staff. Distorted communication is not a recognized type of communication and does not apply to this scenario.

5. Politics is defined as the art of influencing the allocation of scarce resources. An example of a scarce resource allocated by the manager of a patient care unit is:

• A. Raises for the staff.
• B. Patient supplies in the utility room.
• C. Staffing that minimizes overtime.
• D. Paper for the printer.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a healthcare setting, scarce resources can include money, time, personnel, and materials. Staffing decisions directly impact the allocation of personnel resources and can affect overtime costs, making it a critical resource managed by the unit manager. Patient supplies in the utility room and paper for the printer are important, but staffing decisions have a more direct impact on resource allocation within the unit. Raises for staff are typically granted by the institution and are not directly controlled by the unit manager.

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