the primary reason to conduct a performance appraisal is

ATI RN

ATI Leadership Practice A

1. What is the primary reason for conducting a performance appraisal?

A. Providing constructive feedback.
B. Imposing punishment.
C. Identifying issues.
D. Offering coaching.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary reason for conducting a performance appraisal is to provide constructive feedback to employees. This feedback helps employees understand what is expected of them, how well they are performing, and areas where they can improve. Choice B (Imposing punishment) is incorrect because performance appraisals should focus on development rather than punishment. Choice C (Identifying issues) is not the primary reason but can be a secondary outcome of performance appraisals. Choice D (Offering coaching) is related to providing guidance and support, which is a part of the feedback process but not the primary reason for conducting a performance appraisal.

2. A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a female client who has hypovolemia. Which of the following laboratory results would be a priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

A. BUN 21 mg/dL (10 to 20 mg/dL)
B. Potassium 5.8 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L)
C. Creatinine 1.4 mg/dL (0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL)
D. Sodium 132 mEq/L (136 to 145 mEq/L)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a client with hypovolemia, the nurse should prioritize reporting the elevated potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L to the provider. Hypovolemia can lead to electrolyte imbalances, and hyperkalemia (potassium level above 5.0 mEq/L) is a serious condition that can result in cardiac arrhythmias and requires immediate attention. The other laboratory results, BUN, creatinine, and sodium, are also important in assessing renal function and fluid balance, but the priority in this case is the elevated potassium level due to its potential life-threatening complications.

3. Which of the following is true regarding health care systems today?

A. They are all managed care organizations.
B. They are all privately owned.
C. Only HMOs are profitable.
D. There are multiple types of organizations.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'There are multiple types of organizations.' This statement is true as there are various health care delivery systems in today's world, including but not limited to managed care organizations, privately owned facilities, and other models. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because not all health care systems are managed care organizations, privately owned, or only profitable if they are HMOs. Health care systems can vary in ownership, management, and profitability, making choice D the most accurate.

4. What should the nurse do after a 36-year-old patient treated with intramuscular glucagon for hypoglycemia regains consciousness?

A. Assess the patient for symptoms of hyperglycemia.
B. Give the patient a snack of peanut butter and crackers.
C. Have the patient drink a glass of orange juice or nonfat milk.
D. Administer a continuous infusion of 5% dextrose for 24 hours.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After a patient treated with intramuscular glucagon for hypoglycemia regains consciousness, providing a snack of peanut butter and crackers is essential to prevent another episode of hypoglycemia. Peanut butter and crackers contain a combination of protein and carbohydrates, which can help stabilize the patient's blood glucose levels. This choice is the most appropriate immediate action to prevent recurrence of hypoglycemia in this scenario. Assessing for symptoms of hyperglycemia (choice A) is not the immediate priority after treating hypoglycemia. While orange juice or nonfat milk (choice C) can help raise blood sugar, they lack the sustained effect of protein found in peanut butter. Administering a continuous infusion of dextrose (choice D) is excessive and not indicated after the patient has already regained consciousness.

5. What are the key elements essential to the implementation of case management? (Select all that apply.)

A. Collaborative practice teams
B. Established critical pathways
C. Quality management system
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Established critical pathways, collaborative practice teams, and quality management systems are indeed key elements essential to the implementation of case management. Collaborative practice teams allow for multidisciplinary collaboration, established critical pathways help guide patient care, and a quality management system ensures that care provided meets established standards. Choice A, collaborative practice teams, is correct as they are fundamental for effective case management, involving various professionals working together. Choice B, established critical pathways, is also correct as they provide a structured approach to managing patient care. Choice C, quality management system, is correct as it ensures that care is delivered at high standards and continuously monitored for improvement. Therefore, all these elements are crucial for successful case management implementation.