Nursing Elites

1. A nurse manager is interested in solving a serious conflict that exists among the nursing staff. He uses a strategy that involves allowing the group to explore a number of solutions and come to a consensus on a solution. What strategy for conflict resolution has the manager used?

• A. Integrative decision-making
• B. Win-win
• C. Competing
• D. Confrontation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Integrative decision-making. Integrative decision-making involves allowing a group to explore various solutions and work together to reach a consensus. This strategy focuses on collaboration and finding a solution that meets the needs of all parties involved. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. 'Win-win' is another term for integrative decision-making, 'Competing' involves pursuing one's own interests at the expense of others, and 'Confrontation' implies a direct conflict rather than a collaborative approach to resolution.

2. A recent ethical issue has resulted in uneasiness and discomfort for several nurses on a unit. The unit manager has decided to discuss the issues at the next team meeting. The situation has resulted in which of the following for some of the nurses?

• A. Moral suffering
• B. Moral distress
• C. Ethical dilemma
• D. Veracity

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, moral distress. Moral distress occurs when one knows the ethically correct action to take but feels constrained in their ability to take that action due to institutional, hierarchical, or other constraints. In this scenario, the nurses are experiencing uneasiness and discomfort due to an ethical issue, which aligns with the definition of moral distress. Choice A, moral suffering, is not the most appropriate term in this context as moral distress better describes the situation. Choice C, ethical dilemma, refers to a situation where a person is faced with two equally undesirable alternatives, which does not fully capture the nurses' current experience. Choice D, veracity, is unrelated to the nurses' situation and does not fit the context of the scenario.

3. As a new graduate employed in a high-volume maternity unit that uses differentiated practice as its staffing model, what can the nurse expect?

• A. Evidence-based practice guides risk management principles.
• B. Client teaching is the responsibility of the team leader.
• C. The initial level of practice responsibility will be limited.
• D. Seniority is the main determinant of client assignments.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a differentiated practice model, the scope of nursing practice and responsibility are tailored to different levels of experience. As a new graduate with limited experience, the nurse can expect that the initial level of practice responsibility will be limited to match their skill level and knowledge. This allows for a gradual increase in responsibilities as the nurse gains more experience and expertise. Choice A is incorrect because evidence-based practice is related to clinical decision-making, not the staffing model. Choice B is incorrect as client teaching is typically a shared responsibility among the healthcare team, not solely the team leader's. Choice D is incorrect as differentiated practice models focus on skill level and competence rather than seniority when determining client assignments.

4. Which level in Maslow's hierarchy is rarely met?

• A. Esteem
• B. Safety
• C. Self-actualization
• D. Belongingness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Self-actualization.' Self-actualization, the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy, involves developing one's full potential and achieving personal growth. It is considered rarely met because it requires a deep understanding of oneself, a strong sense of purpose, and the ability to pursue intrinsic goals. Esteem (choice A) focuses on respect, recognition, and self-esteem, which are more commonly achieved than self-actualization. Safety (choice B) and belongingness (choice D) are also more commonly attained as they relate to basic needs for security and social connections, which are essential for overall well-being.

5. A nurse manager has two out of six staff nurses call in sick for one shift. Because of reduced availability of staff, the manager decides to manage the unit with the three remaining nurses, which keeps the unit at minimal staffing standards. What type of decision-making strategy would this be?

• A. Satisficing
• B. Routine
• C. Adaptive
• D. Rationalizing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Satisficing. Satisficing is a decision-making strategy where the person chooses an alternative that is good enough given the circumstances. In this scenario, the nurse manager is making a satisfactory decision by managing the unit with the three remaining nurses to meet minimal staffing standards despite the reduced availability of staff. Choice B, Routine, does not apply as the decision made in the scenario is not part of a regular or standard procedure. Choice C, Adaptive, is not the best fit as the decision is more about making do with the available resources rather than adapting to a new situation. Choice D, Rationalizing, does not align with the scenario as it refers to justifying decisions rather than making a practical choice under constraints.

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