Nursing Elites

1. Many patient classification systems have some type of shortcoming. Among these are:

• A. The client's condition changes before the next shift.
• B. The staffing needs are predicted on a short-term basis.
• C. The potential admissions cannot be accounted for.
• D. The staffing mix changes because of illness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Patient classification systems have limitations in accounting for changes in a client's condition, unexpected influx of new admissions, and changes in staffing due to illness. These systems often focus on short-term staffing needs rather than utilizing demand management, which considers client outcomes to predict staffing needs over a longer period. Not being able to account for potential admissions can lead to challenges in effectively managing staff allocation and resources. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific limitation of patient classification systems related to accounting for potential admissions.

2. 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.

3. The staff on a medical-surgical unit is in conflict with the occupational therapy department. What type of communication will be used to discuss the problems?

• A. Downward communication
• B. Lateral communication
• C. Distorted communication
• D. Upward communication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lateral communication. Lateral communication occurs between individuals or departments of the same hierarchical level, making it suitable for addressing conflicts between the staff on a medical-surgical unit and the occupational therapy department. Upward communication involves communication from staff to management or from lower management to middle or upper management. Downward communication is typically directive communication from an authority figure or manager to staff. Distorted communication is not a recognized type of communication and does not apply to this scenario.

4. A female patient is scheduled for an oral glucose tolerance test. Which information from the patient�s health history is most important for the nurse to communicate to the health care provider?

• A. The patient uses oral contraceptives.
• B. The patient runs several days a week.
• C. The patient has been pregnant three times
• D. The patient has a family history of diabetes

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

5. Which of the following is a trait that was found to be common among leaders in trait theory?

• A. Communication of duties assigned
• B. Adaptability and changing priorities
• C. Order giving and decision making for a group
• D. Communication of goal direction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Communication of goal direction.' Trait theory suggests that effective leaders possess certain traits, one of which is the ability to clearly communicate the direction and goals of the group. This trait helps in aligning the efforts of the team towards a common objective. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while communication, adaptability, decision-making, and order giving are important skills for leaders, the specific trait commonly associated with leaders in trait theory is the ability to communicate the direction and goals.

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