Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following best describes the concept of total quality management (TQM)?

• A. Top-down management
• B. Employee-centered approach
• C. Continuous improvement
• D. Quality control

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Continuous improvement. Total quality management (TQM) focuses on continuously improving all aspects of healthcare delivery to enhance patient care, safety, and overall quality. Choice A, 'Top-down management,' does not capture the essence of TQM, which involves involvement at all levels of an organization. Choice B, 'Employee-centered approach,' while important, is not the defining characteristic of TQM. Choice D, 'Quality control,' is a component of TQM but does not fully encompass its comprehensive approach to quality improvement.

2. A __________ is often helpful to use when a problem is not easily identified.

• A. trial and error
• B. Delphi method
• C. political decision-making model
• D. affinity map

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An affinity map is a tool commonly used when a problem is not easily identified. It helps in organizing and grouping ideas, data, or information based on relationships or themes. Choice A, 'trial and error,' involves repeatedly trying different solutions until the problem is solved, which may not be efficient when the problem is not clearly defined. Choice B, the 'Delphi method,' is a structured communication technique for experts to reach a consensus, not specifically for unidentified problems. Choice C, 'political decision-making model,' refers to a process for making decisions in political contexts and is not directly related to identifying unknown problems.

3. Which of the following is true of malpractice?

• A. Malpractice occurs when a professional shares information about a patient that could damage that patient�s reputation.
• B. Malpractice is a serious criminal offense.
• C. Malpractice is a minor criminal offense.
• D. Malpractice is a negligent act by an individual whose duties require specialized education.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Malpractice is a negligent act by an individual whose duties require specialized education.

4. When utilizing an internal float pool, which of the following pools is most efficient?

• A. Centralized
• B. Flexible
• C. Mixed
• D. Decentralized

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Centralization is the most efficient option when utilizing an internal float pool because it allows for a pool of nurses to be used anywhere in the hospital. In centralized pools, staff members are not limited to working for only one nurse manager or on only one unit, unlike in decentralized pools. Flexible and mixed pools may offer some advantages, but in terms of efficiency and utilization of resources, centralized pools are the most effective choice.

5. 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.

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