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. 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.

3. A __________ is often helpful to use when a problem is not easily identified.

• A. trial and error
• B. Delphi method
• C. political decision-making model
• D. affinity map

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An affinity map is a tool commonly used when a problem is not easily identified. It helps in organizing and grouping ideas, data, or information based on relationships or themes. Choice A, 'trial and error,' involves repeatedly trying different solutions until the problem is solved, which may not be efficient when the problem is not clearly defined. Choice B, the 'Delphi method,' is a structured communication technique for experts to reach a consensus, not specifically for unidentified problems. Choice C, 'political decision-making model,' refers to a process for making decisions in political contexts and is not directly related to identifying unknown problems.

4. In the traditional rating scale, what is the time period typically used for evaluation?

• A. Twelve months
• B. Six months
• C. Three months
• D. One month

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the traditional rating scale, evaluations are typically conducted over a 12-month period. This duration allows for a comprehensive assessment of the employee's performance and progress throughout the year, capturing a broader range of experiences and accomplishments to provide a more holistic evaluation. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the standard practice of conducting annual evaluations in a traditional rating scale setting.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has diarrhea due to shigella. Which of the following precautions should the nurse implement for this client?

• A. Have the client wear a mask when receiving visitors.
• B. Limit the client's time with visitors to no more than 30 minutes per day.
• C. Assign the client to a room with negative-pressure airflow exchange.
• D. Wear a gown when caring for the client.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because limiting the client's time with visitors helps prevent the spread of shigella infection to others. Shigella is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, so minimizing contact time reduces the risk of transmission. Choice A is incorrect as there is no need for the client to wear a mask in this situation. Choice C is also incorrect as negative-pressure airflow exchange rooms are typically used for clients with airborne infections. Choice D is incorrect as wearing a gown is not the primary precaution needed for shigella infection.

Similar Questions