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 nurse manager has two out of six staff nurses call in sick for one shift. Because of reduced availability of staff, the manager decides to manage the unit with the three remaining nurses, which keeps the unit at minimal staffing standards. What type of decision-making strategy would this be?

• A. Satisficing
• B. Routine
• C. Adaptive
• D. Rationalizing

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Satisficing is the correct decision-making strategy in this scenario. The nurse manager is not aiming for the best solution but rather choosing an alternative that is good enough given the circumstances of staff shortage. Choice B, Routine, does not apply here as the situation is not part of the manager's regular tasks. Choice C, Adaptive, involves adjusting to new conditions, which is not the primary focus in this scenario. Choice D, Rationalizing, does not fit as the decision made is more about finding an acceptable solution rather than justifying it.

3. Although technology has seen many advances, which two ethical principles may be in conflict because of technology?

• A. Beneficence and justice
• B. Beneficence and nonmaleficence
• C. Beneficence and veracity
• D. Beneficence and confidentiality

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Beneficence and nonmaleficence. Beneficence refers to the obligation to do good and act in the best interest of the patient, while nonmaleficence means to 'do no harm.' With advances in technology, there can be situations where the pursuit of benefit (beneficence) may inadvertently cause harm (nonmaleficence), leading to a conflict between these two ethical principles. Choice A, beneficence and justice, is incorrect because justice pertains to fairness and equality in the distribution of resources and treatments, not conflicting directly with beneficence. Choice C, beneficence and veracity, involves the obligation to tell the truth and is not in direct conflict with beneficence. Choice D, beneficence and confidentiality, relate to maintaining privacy and trust, which can complement rather than conflict with beneficence in most cases.

4. Which of the following best describes the concept of patient-centered care?

• A. Care that is directed solely by healthcare providers
• B. Care that involves coordination among multiple healthcare providers
• C. Care that prioritizes the patient's preferences, needs, and values
• D. Care that strictly adheres to the latest clinical guidelines

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Patient-centered care is a healthcare approach that places the patient at the center of decision-making, emphasizing their preferences, needs, and values. This approach ensures that care is tailored to individual patients, taking into account their unique circumstances and actively involving them in their own care. Choice A is incorrect because patient-centered care focuses on the patient's needs rather than being solely directed by healthcare providers. Choice B is incorrect as involving multiple healthcare providers doesn't necessarily mean care is patient-centered; instead, it's about tailoring care to the patient's individual needs. Choice D is also incorrect as patient-centered care goes beyond just following clinical guidelines to encompass individual patient preferences and values.

5. What is the primary goal of discharge planning?

• A. Reducing readmission rates
• B. Improving patient outcomes
• C. Ensuring continuity of care
• D. Ensuring medication adherence

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary goal of discharge planning is to ensure continuity of care for patients transitioning from one level of care to another. While reducing readmission rates and improving patient outcomes are important aspects of discharge planning, the main focus is on coordinating care to prevent gaps and ensure a seamless transition for the patient. Ensuring medication adherence is also crucial but falls under the broader goal of continuity of care.

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