what is the primary goal of a root cause analysis rca in healthcare
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Nursing Elites

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1. What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?

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.

2. A manager has a budget request deadline today at 3:00. He stops his work to answer the phone, check emails as they arrive, and speak with staff who stop by his office. As a result, he misses the deadline. What best describes the cause of missing his deadline?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The best choice that describes the cause of the manager missing his deadline is 'Time wasters.' In this scenario, the manager's focus was diverted by tasks like answering the phone, checking emails, and speaking with staff, which are considered time wasters when they prevent him from meeting his deadline. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect in this context. Goal setting was not the issue as the manager was aware of the deadline; organization did not play a significant role as his tasks were interrupted by external factors, and assertiveness was not the cause of missing the deadline.

3. Which of the following skills are essential for healthcare professionals in today's healthcare environment?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In today's healthcare environment, professionals require a diverse skill set to effectively navigate the complexities of patient care. Communication is fundamental for effective patient interactions, teamwork, and collaboration. Supervision and management skills are crucial for overseeing patient care and ensuring operational efficiency. Delegation is important for distributing tasks appropriately among team members. Therefore, all the skills mentioned (communication, supervision, management, and delegation) are essential for healthcare professionals in today's healthcare environment. The correct answer is 'All of the above' because all the skills listed are crucial and interlinked in providing high-quality patient care in the current healthcare setting. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because each skill plays a vital role in the multifaceted responsibilities of healthcare professionals, and focusing on only one aspect would be limiting in today's dynamic healthcare landscape.

4. A 32-year-old patient with diabetes is starting on intensive insulin therapy. Which type of insulin will the nurse discuss using for mealtime coverage?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: For mealtime coverage in intensive insulin therapy, rapid-acting insulins like Lispro (Humalog) are used. Lispro has a quick onset of action, making it suitable for covering the rise in blood sugar levels after meals. Glargine (Lantus), Detemir (Levemir), and NPH (Humulin N) are all long-acting insulins and are not appropriate for mealtime coverage as they do not act quickly enough to manage postprandial glucose spikes.

5. Who is the best person to describe the job to an applicant?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The nursing manager is the most suitable person to describe the job to an applicant because they are directly involved in the day-to-day operations and requirements of the position. They have firsthand knowledge of the job responsibilities, expectations, and qualifications needed. Human resource managers are involved in recruitment but may not have the detailed operational knowledge that a nursing manager possesses. A previous employee may provide insights into the work environment but may not have a comprehensive understanding of the current job requirements. The chief operating officer oversees the organization's overall operations and strategy, so they may not have the specific details about the job to effectively describe it to an applicant.

Similar Questions

A client who is nonambulatory notifies the nurse that their trash can is on fire. After the nurse confirms the presence of the fire, which of the following actions should the nurse take next?
A nurse recognizes which of the following as a primary goal of nursing?
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Which of the following is an example of a secondary prevention strategy?
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