Nursing Elites

1. Politics is defined as the art of influencing the allocation of scarce resources. An example of a scarce resource allocated by the manager of a patient care unit is:

• A. Raises for the staff.
• B. Patient supplies in the utility room.
• C. Staffing that minimizes overtime.
• D. Paper for the printer.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a healthcare setting, scarce resources can include money, time, personnel, and materials. Staffing decisions directly impact the allocation of personnel resources and can affect overtime costs, making it a critical resource managed by the unit manager. Patient supplies in the utility room and paper for the printer are important, but staffing decisions have a more direct impact on resource allocation within the unit. Raises for staff are typically granted by the institution and are not directly controlled by the unit manager.

2. When utilizing an internal float pool, which of the following pools is most efficient?

• A. Centralized
• B. Flexible
• C. Mixed
• D. Decentralized

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Centralization is the most efficient option when utilizing an internal float pool because it allows for a pool of nurses to be used anywhere in the hospital. In centralized pools, staff members are not limited to working for only one nurse manager or on only one unit, unlike in decentralized pools. Flexible and mixed pools may offer some advantages, but in terms of efficiency and utilization of resources, centralized pools are the most effective choice.

3. What is the primary goal of patient education?

• A. To enhance clinical skills
• B. To ensure patient safety
• C. To empower patients to take control of their health
• D. To improve patient compliance

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To empower patients to take control of their health.' Patient education aims to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to actively participate in managing their health conditions. Choice A, 'To enhance clinical skills,' is incorrect as patient education focuses on empowering patients, not enhancing healthcare providers' skills. Choice B, 'To ensure patient safety,' is incorrect because while patient safety is crucial, the primary goal of patient education is to empower patients. Choice D, 'To improve patient compliance,' is also incorrect as the main aim is to empower patients to make informed decisions and take an active role in their healthcare.

4. Which of the following factors may affect successful communication?

• A. Cultural background
• B. Organizational structure
• C. Method of communication
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Various factors can influence successful communication. Cultural background is crucial as different cultures may have distinct communication styles and norms. Organizational structure plays a role by determining the flow of information within an organization. The method of communication chosen can impact the clarity and effectiveness of the message being conveyed. Therefore, all the options provided - cultural background, organizational structure, and method of communication - can affect successful communication, making 'All of the above' the correct answer.

5. An RN�s current patient and family have presented her with an ethical dilemma. What is the first step the RN should take to find a workable solution to the problem?

• A. Planning
• B. Assessment
• C. Evaluation
• D. Implementation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The first step the RN should take to find a workable solution to the problem is assessment.

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