Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a common characteristic of a high reliability organization (HRO)?

• A. Flexibility
• B. Reluctance to simplify
• C. Preoccupation with failure
• D. Deference to expertise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A common characteristic of a high reliability organization (HRO) is a preoccupation with failure. HROs focus on identifying and addressing potential failure points to prevent errors and maintain high levels of safety and reliability. This mindset helps them anticipate and mitigate risks proactively, leading to better outcomes and performance. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While flexibility, reluctance to simplify, and deference to expertise may be important in various contexts, they are not the primary defining characteristics of a high reliability organization. The core focus of HROs is on continuously monitoring for potential failures and working to prevent them.

2. Which of the following is an example of a sentinel event?

• A. A patient fall with no injury
• B. A medication error that results in no harm
• C. A patient suicide while in a healthcare facility
• D. A near miss incident

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, a patient suicide while in a healthcare facility. A sentinel event is an unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury. Choices A, B, and D do not meet the criteria for sentinel events as described by The Joint Commission, as they do not involve death or serious harm to the patient.

3. Which of the following is NOT considered a withdrawal behavior?

• A. Turnover
• B. Strategies
• C. Stress
• D. Punctuality

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Strategies.' Withdrawal behaviors are actions employees take to mentally escape the work environment. Turnover, stress, and punctuality are examples of withdrawal behaviors. Turnover refers to employees leaving the workplace, stress leads to disengagement, and lack of punctuality can indicate disinterest or withdrawal. 'Strategies' do not fit the definition of withdrawal behaviors, making it the correct answer.

4. When should the nurse initiate discharge planning for a client experiencing an exacerbation of heart failure?

• A. During the admission process
• B. As soon as the client's condition is stable
• C. After consulting with the client's family
• D. During the initial team conference

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct time for the nurse to initiate discharge planning for a client experiencing an exacerbation of heart failure is as soon as the client's condition is stable. Discharge planning should begin early to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care. While involving the client's family in the planning process is crucial, the primary focus should be on starting the preparations for discharge once the client's immediate health concerns are addressed and their condition is stable. Waiting for a team conference or after consulting with the family may delay the planning process, which is not ideal in ensuring a timely and effective discharge plan.

5. A unit director at a local hospital knows even leadership may face ethical dilemmas. Which of the following should the director take into consideration when dealing with an employee who is incompetent?

• A. The situation should be tolerated for as long as possible because of the amount of time and paperwork required to terminate an incompetent nurse.
• B. Incompetence only impacts the individual nurse.
• C. The director should follow her institution�s formal process for reporting and handling practices that jeopardize patient safety.
• D. Most nurse practice acts direct how to handle incompetent nurses.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The director should follow her institution�s formal process for reporting and handling practices that jeopardize patient safety.

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