an expensive variable in salary budgets is overtime pay which of the following is a viable option to reduce overtime

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

1. 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.

2. Which of the following is a recommendation for avoiding charges of negligence and false imprisonment for confused clients?

A. Carefully assess and document client status.
B. Ensure all patient information is secure and the nurse has logged out of the computer before leaving the computer station.
C. Keep detailed notes while providing care to ensure accurate documentation later in the day.
D. Discuss safety needs with clients.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Carefully assess and document client status.' When dealing with confused clients, it is crucial to assess their status carefully and document it accurately. This helps in avoiding charges of negligence and false imprisonment by ensuring that the client's condition is well-documented and appropriate care is provided. Choice B is incorrect because it focuses on computer security rather than client care. Choice C is incorrect because it emphasizes detailed notes for accuracy but does not specifically address the confusion of clients. Choice D is incorrect as it mentions discussing safety needs but does not directly relate to avoiding charges of negligence and false imprisonment for confused clients.

3. What is the main focus of a clinical governance framework?

A. Financial performance
B. Regulatory compliance
C. Patient care quality
D. Staff satisfaction

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main focus of a clinical governance framework is patient care quality. This framework is designed to ensure that patient care is safe, effective, and patient-centered. Choice A, financial performance, is not the main focus of a clinical governance framework, although financial aspects may be considered. Choice B, regulatory compliance, is important but not the primary focus of a clinical governance framework. Choice D, staff satisfaction, is also important but is not the main focus of a clinical governance framework, which primarily centers around patient care quality.

4. The staff nurse delegates AM care for two patients to the UAP (Unlicensed Assistive Person). What principle of delegation is the nurse following?

A. Delegation requires a situation with clearly defined superiors.
B. Delegation can only exist with a subordinate.
C. Delegation is a tool used by various healthcare professionals.
D. You can delegate only those tasks.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'You can delegate only those tasks.' Delegation in nursing involves transferring responsibility for the performance of a task while retaining accountability for the outcome. The principle of delegation does not require a situation with clearly defined superiors (choice A). Delegation can exist not only with a subordinate but also with colleagues or other healthcare team members (choice B). Delegation is not exclusive to nurses and is a tool used by various healthcare professionals (choice C). Therefore, the best choice is D as it accurately reflects the principle of delegation in nursing.

5. What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?

A. To assign blame for errors
B. To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes
C. To improve patient satisfaction
D. To analyze the financial impact of errors

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes.' Root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare aims to delve deep into the factors contributing to an error to prevent its recurrence. Choice A is incorrect as RCA focuses on identifying system issues, not blaming individuals. Choice C is incorrect as while improving patient satisfaction may result from the process, it is not the primary goal. Choice D is incorrect as the main focus of RCA is not financial analysis but rather improving patient safety.