Nursing Elites

1. Behavioral leadership theory recognizes three styles of leadership. Which of the following best describes democratic leadership?

• A. The democratic leader communicates meaning and purpose.
• B. The democratic leader gives orders and makes decisions for the group.
• C. The democratic leader does little planning or decision making.
• D. The democratic leader makes plans and decisions with the team.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Democratic leadership involves the leader working collaboratively with the team to make plans and decisions. This style values input from team members, encourages participation in the decision-making process, and fosters a sense of ownership among the team. Choice A is incorrect because simply communicating meaning and purpose does not capture the essence of democratic leadership. Choice B is incorrect as giving orders and making decisions for the group is more characteristic of an autocratic leadership style. Choice C is incorrect as democratic leaders are actively involved in planning and decision-making processes, contrary to doing little of it.

2. When looking at the issue surrounding absenteeism, an innovative approach would be:

• A. Rewarding those who do not use days.
• B. Substituting personal days.
• C. Termination.
• D. Disciplinary actions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Substituting personal days for sick days can be considered an innovative approach to addressing absenteeism as it allows for proper planning by the nurse manager. This approach promotes a proactive and flexible solution that encourages employees to manage their time off more effectively. Choice A, rewarding those who do not use days, may not address the root causes of absenteeism and could create a culture of presenteeism. Choices C and D, termination and disciplinary actions, are punitive measures that do not focus on preventive strategies or address the underlying reasons for absenteeism.

3. Which of the following is a common characteristic of a Magnet-designated hospital?

• A. High nurse turnover rates
• B. Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary teamwork
• C. Limited opportunities for professional development
• D. Focus on advanced technology for patient care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A common characteristic of a Magnet-designated hospital is a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary teamwork. This emphasis promotes collaboration among healthcare professionals from different disciplines to provide holistic and patient-centered care. Choice A is incorrect as Magnet hospitals typically have lower nurse turnover rates due to better work environments. Choice C is also incorrect as Magnet hospitals usually offer ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Choice D is not a defining characteristic of Magnet hospitals, although they may utilize advanced technology, the primary focus is on the quality of care provided through teamwork and excellence in nursing practice.

4. Which of the following types of leadership behaviors would be most useful when managing a staff of newly trained CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants)?

• A. Achievement-oriented
• B. Supportive
• C. Participative
• D. Directive

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The most useful type of leadership behavior when managing a staff of newly trained CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) would be directive. Directive leadership involves giving specific guidance, ensuring adherence to rules and procedures, scheduling work efforts, and clearly telling employees what is expected. This approach is particularly beneficial for newly trained staff who may require clear instructions and guidance. - Achievement-oriented leadership focuses on setting challenging goals and encouraging employees to reach their highest potential. While this can be beneficial in some situations, it may not be the most suitable for managing newly trained CNAs who require more guidance and direction. - Supportive leadership involves providing emotional support, encouragement, and assistance to employees. While emotional support is essential in any work environment, newly trained CNAs may benefit more from clear direction and guidance. - Participative leadership involves involving employees in decision-making processes. While this can promote employee engagement and empowerment, newly trained CNAs may require more structured guidance and direction to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities.

5. The problem of overrating staff performance is called ___________ .

• A. Recency error
• B. Absolute judgment
• C. Halo error
• D. Leniency error

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Leniency error.' Leniency error occurs when a manager tends to overrate staff performance, giving higher ratings than deserved. Choice A, 'Recency error,' refers to the tendency to focus only on recent behaviors or events when evaluating performance. Choice B, 'Absolute judgment,' is not directly related to overrating staff performance; it refers to making evaluations without considering the context or comparison points. Choice C, 'Halo error,' involves allowing one positive aspect of an individual to overshadow other factors in performance evaluation, which is different from overrating overall staff performance.

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