Nursing Elites

1. The unit manager of a 32-bed medical-surgical unit allows the staff nurses to do self-governance for scheduling, client care assignments, and committee work. The manager would be considered which type of leader?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Laissez-faire. In a laissez-faire leadership style, the manager exerts very little control and allows the staff to have a high degree of autonomy in decision-making and problem-solving. This type of leader provides guidance when needed but largely leaves the decision-making process to the staff. Autocratic leadership (choice A) is characterized by centralizing decision-making authority, democratic leadership (choice B) involves shared decision-making, and bureaucratic leadership (choice C) relies on adherence to rules and procedures.

2. Knowing the different modes of communication used by men and women is important for the nurse manager. Which of the following is a difference in communication in unpleasant situations?

• A. Men tend to talk more, and women withdraw.
• B. Men tend to use tag questions.
• C. Women disagree more.
• D. Women talk longer and faster, men disclose more.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. In unpleasant situations, men tend to talk more, while women tend to withdraw. Women are more likely to use tag questions and disclose more. Men, on the other hand, tend to talk longer and may be more inclined to disagree. Therefore, option A is the most accurate choice that highlights a difference in communication styles between men and women in unpleasant situations.

3. What is the main purpose of a clinical audit?

• A. To measure patient satisfaction
• B. To evaluate the effectiveness of clinical practices
• C. To identify areas for improvement
• D. To standardize patient care protocols

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main purpose of a clinical audit is to identify areas for improvement in clinical practices. While patient satisfaction might be a component evaluated during an audit, the primary goal is to ensure that care is safe, effective, and patient-centered, rather than solely focusing on satisfaction. Evaluating the effectiveness of clinical practices is a related but more specific goal compared to the broader aim of identifying areas for improvement. Standardizing patient care protocols can be a result of a clinical audit, but it is not the main purpose, which is to pinpoint areas needing enhancement.

4. Which of the following best describes the role of a nurse preceptor?

• A. Supervisor of all nursing staff
• B. Mentor and educator for new nurses
• C. Director of nursing services
• D. Coordinator of patient care

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Mentor and educator for new nurses.' A nurse preceptor plays a crucial role in mentoring and educating new nurses. They provide guidance, support, and practical knowledge to help new nurses transition smoothly into their roles. While preceptors may have supervisory responsibilities during the orientation period, their primary focus is on supporting the professional development of new nurses, rather than supervising all nursing staff, directing nursing services, or coordinating patient care. Choice A is incorrect because a nurse preceptor does not supervise all nursing staff but focuses on new nurses. Choice C is incorrect as the role of a director of nursing services involves overall management and leadership of nursing services. Choice D is incorrect as a coordinator of patient care is responsible for organizing patient care activities, not specifically focused on mentoring new nurses.

5. When in opposition to an immediate superior, a nurse manager should use which important strategy in a confrontation?

• A. Using 'I' language
• B. Using absolutes
• C. Using 'why' questions
• D. Using negative assertions

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When in a confrontation, using 'I' language is crucial for a nurse manager. This approach allows the manager to express personal feelings without sounding accusatory, which can help reduce defensiveness and promote open communication. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Using absolutes can come off as rigid and may escalate the conflict. 'Why' questions can be perceived as confrontational and may put the other person on the defensive. Negative assertions can lead to a more hostile exchange rather than fostering a constructive dialogue.

Similar Questions