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. An RN cared for a state senator during the day shift. Later that day he was having dinner with friends when the news mentioned the senator had been hospitalized. The RN�s friends asked if he knew what was wrong with the senator. Which ethical principle should the RN consider when replying?

• A. Fidelity
• B. Confidentiality
• C. Veracity
• D. Accountability

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The RN should consider the ethical principle of confidentiality when replying.

3. Which theory emphasizes the long-range plan rather than rewards?

• A. Equity theory.
• B. Development.
• C. Goal setting.
• D. Extinction.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Goal setting. Goal-setting theory emphasizes that it is the goal itself that motivates a person to exert effort, not just the rewards or outcomes. This theory focuses on setting specific and challenging goals to enhance performance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because Equity theory relates to fairness in social exchanges, Development theory concerns personal growth and advancement, and Extinction refers to the disappearance of a behavior when it is no longer reinforced.

4. On a voting ballot, the individuals who are to be elected during a vote are called:

• A. Representatives.
• B. Candidates.
• C. Bargaining agents.
• D. Electorate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct term for individuals who are to be elected during a vote is 'Candidates.' On a voting ballot, voters choose among the candidates running for a particular position or office. 'Representatives' (Choice A) are individuals who have already been elected to represent a group of people. 'Bargaining agents' (Choice C) typically refer to individuals negotiating on behalf of others, not those being elected. 'Electorate' (Choice D) refers to all the people in a country or area who are entitled to vote in an election, not specifically the candidates themselves.

5. Politics is a means for influencing events and the decisions of others. The nurse manager who consistently reminds the staff that 'there is no I in team' and periodically brings treats for the staff is using:

• A. Image enhancement
• B. Political skills
• C. Reward power
• D. Expert power

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Political skills. Politics involve interpersonal endeavors, collective activities, analysis, planning, and managing image. In this scenario, the nurse manager is skillfully building team morale and influencing staff dynamics by emphasizing teamwork ('there is no I in team') and boosting morale through occasional treats. This demonstrates the use of political skills to influence and manage relationships within the team. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the manager's actions are not solely focused on image enhancement, reward power, or expert power. Instead, they are aimed at fostering teamwork and boosting staff morale.

Similar Questions