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 describes the ability to enter into a contract with an employer?

• A. Certification to contract
• B. Certification to represent
• C. Bargaining agreement
• D. Contract agreement

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'Certification to contract,' which refers to the process by which a union, certified by the NLRB as a bargaining agent, can enter into a contract with an employer that has been voted on by the union membership. The other choices are incorrect because 'Certification to represent' does not specifically address entering into a contract, 'Bargaining agreement' refers to the actual agreement reached through negotiation, and 'Contract agreement' is redundant, as it simply repeats the term 'contract.'

3. What is the primary focus of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI)?

• A. Patient safety
• B. Cost reduction
• C. Healthcare innovation
• D. Research funding

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The primary focus of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) is patient safety. IHI is renowned for its efforts in developing and implementing evidence-based practices to enhance patient safety and improve the quality of care in healthcare settings. While cost reduction, healthcare innovation, and research funding are important aspects of healthcare, the core mission of the IHI revolves around prioritizing patient safety. Patient safety involves reducing medical errors, improving care processes, and creating a safer environment for patients, which are all fundamental to the work of the IHI.

4. Which of the following best describes the concept of shared decision-making in healthcare?

• A. The process by which patients make healthcare decisions on their own
• B. A collaborative process that allows patients and providers to make healthcare decisions together
• C. A method for providers to dictate treatment plans to patients
• D. The use of evidence-based guidelines to make healthcare decisions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Shared decision-making in healthcare involves a collaborative process between patients and providers to make healthcare decisions together. This approach considers the patient's preferences, values, and the best available evidence to reach a decision that aligns with the patient's goals. Choice A is incorrect because shared decision-making does not involve patients making decisions on their own. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a paternalistic approach where providers dictate treatment plans to patients without involving them in the decision-making process. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the use of evidence-based guidelines, which is important but not the sole focus of shared decision-making.

5. The charge nurse role has negatively affected your relationship with your friends and made you feel tense and isolated. You decide that you will delegate more time-consuming tasks to staff who are not your friends, who then complain to your nurse manager about your perceived unfairness. You decide to:

• A. Talk with your friends individually to let them know that you will be assigning patients to all staff in an equitable manner.
• B. Not express your angry feelings.
• C. Talk about staff who are annoying you with staff on other units.
• D. Ignore your feelings of uncertainty, hoping they will diminish.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, it is essential to address the perceived unfairness in task delegation. Talking with your friends individually to explain that patients will be assigned equitably is the most appropriate course of action. This approach promotes transparency and fairness in task allocation, helping to maintain professional relationships. Choices B, C, and D are not suitable responses. Choice B ignores the issue, choice C involves unprofessional behavior by gossiping about colleagues, and choice D neglects addressing the root cause of the problem.

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