Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following actions best demonstrates effective delegation by a nurse manager?

• A. Retaining all tasks
• B. Assigning tasks without supervision
• C. Delegating tasks and providing oversight
• D. Avoiding delegation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Delegating tasks and providing oversight. Effective delegation by a nurse manager involves appropriately assigning tasks to others while also ensuring proper supervision and follow-up. This allows the nurse manager to distribute workload efficiently while maintaining accountability and quality of care. Choices A and D are incorrect as retaining all tasks or avoiding delegation can lead to burnout, inefficiency, and lack of skill development among team members. Choice B is incorrect as assigning tasks without supervision may result in errors, lack of clarity, and potential patient safety issues.

2. An RN is working through an ethical dilemma involving a patient on his unit. He has just identified the decision makers involved. Which step best describes the current stage the RN is working through?

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

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Planning. In the planning phase of addressing an ethical dilemma, the goals of treatment are established, decision makers are identified, and all available options are reviewed. The assessment phase involves collecting data and information, the diagnosis phase involves analyzing the information to identify the problem, and the implementation phase involves carrying out the chosen plan of action. Therefore, in this scenario, where decision makers are being identified, the RN is in the planning stage.

3. A Staff Nurse submits a six-week notice of resignation. The Nurse Manager prepares a request to immediately post the position and begin interviews. This action is best described as which of the following?

• A. Delegation
• B. A time-waster
• C. Reactive management
• D. Proactive management

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Proactive management. Proactive management involves taking steps to prevent issues from occurring rather than just reacting to them. In this scenario, the Nurse Manager is being proactive by preparing to fill the position before the Staff Nurse leaves, thereby preventing short staffing. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Delegation refers to assigning tasks to others, not preparing to fill a vacant position. Calling it a time-waster is subjective and not reflective of the manager's proactive approach. Reactive management would involve waiting until the Nurse leaves and then trying to fill the position, causing short staffing.

4. Construction is occurring in the Emergency Department, with equipment and sharp items being used by the contractors. As the charge nurse, you are concerned that agitated patients might use the equipment as weapons and you meet with staff to: (EXCEPT)

• A. Notify the nursing supervisor.
• B. Notify security.
• C. Have them check patients to verify safety.
• D. Ask construction workers to be responsible.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When construction is ongoing in a healthcare setting, it is essential to address safety concerns promptly. While it is crucial to notify the nursing supervisor and security to manage potential risks, having staff check patients for safety is also a valid precautionary measure. However, asking construction workers to be responsible is not a proper action to address the safety concerns posed by the equipment. Construction workers are professionals responsible for their tasks; it is the healthcare facility's responsibility to ensure patient and staff safety in such situations.

5. 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.

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