Nursing Elites

1. What type of staffing involves scheduling a certain number of people per day consistently?

• A. Flexible
• B. Mixed
• C. Block
• D. Creative

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Block staffing. Block staffing involves scheduling a consistent number of staff per day. This method ensures a predictable workforce on each shift, allowing for better planning and allocation of resources. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not specifically refer to the consistent scheduling of a certain number of staff per day as seen in block staffing.

2. Which leadership style is most effective in a crisis situation?

• A. Democratic
• B. Autocratic
• C. Transformational
• D. Laissez-faire

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An autocratic leadership style is most effective in a crisis situation because it allows for quick decision-making without the need for extensive consultation or deliberation. In a crisis, immediate and decisive actions are often required to address the situation effectively. Democratic leadership, on the other hand, may slow down the decision-making process due to the need for consensus and input from team members. Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers, which may not always be as effective in a crisis where urgent actions are needed. Laissez-faire leadership, characterized by a hands-off approach, is generally ineffective in crisis situations as it lacks the necessary direction and guidance required to navigate through the challenges efficiently.

3. The manager of a medical-surgical unit is very task-motivated. Using Fiedler's Contingency Theory, under what circumstances would the manager be most effective?

• A. Only during highly stressful situations.
• B. When there is little to no stress.
• C. Under highly structured situations.
• D. When the situation is loosely structured.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: According to Fiedler's Contingency Theory, task-motivated managers are most effective under highly structured situations. This is because in such environments, where priorities are clear and tasks are well-defined, task-oriented managers can excel in organizing and accomplishing objectives efficiently. Choices A and B are incorrect because the effectiveness of a task-motivated manager is not solely linked to stress levels but rather to the structure of the situation. Choice D is also incorrect as a loosely structured situation would not provide the clarity and direction that a task-motivated manager thrives in.

4. Which of the following strategies is most effective for reducing medication errors on a nursing unit?

• A. Increasing the nurse-to-patient ratio
• B. Providing ongoing education on safe medication practices
• C. Using barcoding technology for medication administration
• D. Increasing the use of PRN medications

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most effective strategy for reducing medication errors on a nursing unit is using barcoding technology for medication administration. Barcoding technology helps to ensure the right medication is given to the right patient in the right dose at the right time. Increasing the nurse-to-patient ratio (choice A) may help in preventing errors due to workload, but it may not address the root cause of medication errors. Providing ongoing education (choice B) is important but may not be as effective as implementing technology to directly prevent errors during administration. Increasing the use of PRN medications (choice D) can actually increase the risk of errors if not carefully monitored and controlled.

5. What is the primary purpose of clinical pathways in healthcare?

• A. Reduce hospital readmissions
• B. Standardize care
• C. Provide individualized care
• D. Streamline care processes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of clinical pathways in healthcare is to provide individualized care. While clinical pathways do involve standardizing treatment plans, their main goal is to tailor these plans to the individual needs of patients. This customization ensures that patients receive care that is specific to their condition and requirements, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because although reducing hospital readmissions, standardizing care, and streamlining care processes can be benefits of clinical pathways, they are not the primary purpose. The main focus is on delivering personalized treatment paths to enhance patient outcomes.

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