Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following best describes the purpose of a root cause analysis (RCA)?

• A. Identify the person responsible for an error
• B. Determine who should be disciplined
• C. Discover the underlying causes of an error
• D. Evaluate the effectiveness of a new policy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Discover the underlying causes of an error.' Root cause analysis (RCA) focuses on identifying the fundamental reason(s) that led to an error or problem rather than placing blame on individuals. Choice A and B are incorrect as RCA is not about pinpointing a specific person to blame or determining disciplinary actions. Choice D is also incorrect as the primary goal of RCA is not to evaluate policy effectiveness but to uncover the root causes of issues for effective problem-solving.

2. A __________ is often helpful to use when a problem is not easily identified.

• A. trial and error
• B. Delphi method
• C. political decision-making model
• D. affinity map

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An affinity map is a tool commonly used when a problem is not easily identified. It helps in organizing and grouping ideas, data, or information based on relationships or themes. Choice A, 'trial and error,' involves repeatedly trying different solutions until the problem is solved, which may not be efficient when the problem is not clearly defined. Choice B, the 'Delphi method,' is a structured communication technique for experts to reach a consensus, not specifically for unidentified problems. Choice C, 'political decision-making model,' refers to a process for making decisions in political contexts and is not directly related to identifying unknown problems.

3. Which of the following is an important aspect of note-taking?

• A. Not specific and behavior-oriented
• B. Forces the manager to deal with the problem
• C. Records only undesirable events
• D. Failure to give performance feedback

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Forces the manager to deal with the problem.' Note-taking is essential as it compels the manager to address issues, regardless of their size or nature. This process helps in identifying, documenting, and resolving problems effectively. Choice A is incorrect because note-taking should be specific and focused on behaviors. Choice C is incorrect as note-taking should record all events, not just undesirable ones. Choice D is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the importance of note-taking in addressing problems.

4. An RN�s current patient and family have presented her with an ethical dilemma. What is the first step the RN should take to find a workable solution to the problem?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The first step is assessment and identification of the problem.

5. A new manager is implementing an initiative with the desired outcome of having the unit run more smoothly. What quality is the manager demonstrating?

• A. Being unrealistic
• B. Being a change agent
• C. Being democratic
• D. Being authoritarian

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Being a change agent. The manager is demonstrating the quality of being a change agent by implementing an initiative aimed at improving the unit's operations. A change agent initiates and drives changes to enhance effectiveness and efficiency within the unit. Choice A is incorrect because the manager's actions are not described as unrealistic but rather proactive. Choice C, being democratic, is incorrect as it does not relate to the manager's initiative to improve unit operations. Choice D, being authoritarian, is also incorrect as the manager is not described as enforcing changes through strict control and power.

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