Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following best describes the purpose of a root cause analysis (RCA)?

• A. Identify the person responsible for an error
• B. Determine who should be disciplined
• C. Discover the underlying causes of an error
• D. Evaluate the effectiveness of a new policy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Discover the underlying causes of an error.' Root cause analysis (RCA) focuses on identifying the fundamental reason(s) that led to an error or problem rather than placing blame on individuals. Choice A and B are incorrect as RCA is not about pinpointing a specific person to blame or determining disciplinary actions. Choice D is also incorrect as the primary goal of RCA is not to evaluate policy effectiveness but to uncover the root causes of issues for effective problem-solving.

2. While interviewing for a position at City Hospital, the nurse asks about the organizational structure of the institution. She is told that the hospital is organized into departments based on specialty (e.g., nursing, dietary, pharmacy, etc.). Based on what you know about organizational structure, select the structure in this example.

• A. Parallel
• B. Functional
• C. Service-integrated
• D. Matrix

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Functional.' In a functional structure, organizations group employees into departments based on specialty, where similar tasks are performed by the same group. In this scenario, the hospital organizing its departments by specialty such as nursing, dietary, and pharmacy aligns with the characteristics of a functional structure. Choice A, 'Parallel,' does not fit the scenario described; parallel structures involve separate, independent units operating in parallel with little interaction. Choice C, 'Service-integrated,' does not align with the scenario either as it involves integrating services across departments. Choice D, 'Matrix,' is not the correct answer as it involves a complex organizational structure where employees report to multiple managers simultaneously, which is not the case in the scenario provided.

3. When preparing for a meeting to discuss the annual budget, what would be the best approach to ensure all relevant points are covered?

• A. Prepare an agenda
• B. Use visual aids
• C. Invite only key stakeholders
• D. Review previous budgets

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Preparing an agenda is the best approach when discussing the annual budget to ensure that all relevant points are covered. An agenda helps structure the meeting, outline key topics, allocate time efficiently, and keep the discussion focused on important budget-related matters. It also assists in setting clear objectives and expectations for the meeting participants, ensuring that all necessary points are addressed and that the meeting stays on track. While using visual aids, inviting only key stakeholders, and reviewing previous budgets can be important steps in the budget discussion process, none of these can replace the crucial role of having a well-prepared agenda.

4. There are several pitfalls that should be avoided when using social media of any type. For example, a nurse or student could be found guilty of libel in which of the following scenarios?

• A. Snapping a selfie with a patient
• B. Posting a positive review of the hospital where the student completed clinicals
• C. Creating a closed online forum where students can discuss clinical experiences without providing client information
• D. Complaining about her nurse preceptor on social media, discussing the preceptor�s unprofessional characteristics.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Statements about individuals encountered in one�s professional or educational life that could damage that person�s reputation may be slander or libel and can be prosecuted as quasi-intentional torts.

5. A group of physicians comes into conflict with the nursing staff of a unit over when AM vital signs are recorded. What type of technique might be used that respects the professionalism of both parties?

• A. Accommodating
• B. Collaboration
• C. Avoiding
• D. Competing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate technique to use is collaboration. Collaboration involves working together with mutual attention to the problem, utilizing the talents of all parties involved. This approach respects the professionalism of both physicians and nursing staff by valuing their input and expertise. Choice A, accommodating, involves giving in to the other party's concerns, which may not fully address the conflict. Choice C, avoiding, suggests ignoring or sidestepping the issue, which does not promote a resolution. Choice D, competing, involves pursuing one's own concerns at the expense of the other party's, leading to a win-lose situation, which is not conducive to resolving conflicts in a professional setting.

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