Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is an essential element of a quality improvement (QI) program?

• A. Blame and punishment
• B. Employee satisfaction
• C. Continual monitoring
• D. Strict adherence to policies

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The essential element of a quality improvement (QI) program is continual monitoring. Continual monitoring allows for the ongoing assessment of processes, identification of areas for improvement, and tracking of progress. Option A, 'Blame and punishment,' is incorrect as QI programs focus on systemic issues rather than individual blame. Option B, 'Employee satisfaction,' while important for organizational culture, is not an essential element of QI programs. Option D, 'Strict adherence to policies,' is valuable but not the core essential element, which is continual monitoring to drive improvement.

2. Which of the following statements accurately describes the relationship between ethical principles and laws?

• A. The government enforces ethics.
• B. Laws guide decision making by setting standards.
• C. Ethics are highly detailed.
• D. Ethical principles can serve as the foundation for laws.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The statement 'Ethical principles can serve as the foundation for laws' is correct. Ethical principles act as a standard for evaluating actions and behaviors. While ethical principles may influence the creation of laws, they are not laws themselves. Choice A is incorrect as ethics are usually upheld through societal norms and personal values rather than government enforcement. Choice B is incorrect because laws do provide standards, but those standards are legal rather than ethical. Choice C is incorrect as ethics are broad guidelines for behavior, not highly detailed rules.

3. 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.

4. What quality is observed among individuals who strive to find the best way to do their job?

• A. Punctuality
• B. Strictness
• C. Honesty
• D. Motivation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Motivation is the driving force that compels individuals to strive to find the best way to do their job. It encompasses determination, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to continuously improve and excel in their work. Being motivated is essential for individuals in any profession to seek innovative solutions, achieve excellence, and make a meaningful impact. Punctuality, while important, refers to being on time rather than the drive to find the best way to do a job. Strictness relates to enforcing rules or discipline, not necessarily to seeking the best way. Honesty is about truthfulness and integrity, which are crucial but not directly related to the pursuit of excellence in job performance.

5. Lippitt's phases of change are important factors in the change process. The phase that involves key people in data collection is known as:

• A. Assess the motivation.
• B. Choose a change agent.
• C. Diagnose the problem.
• D. Maintain the change.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Diagnose the problem.' In Lippitt's phases of change, the first step is to diagnose the problem, which involves key people in data collection and problem-solving. This step is crucial as it helps identify the root causes of the issues that need to be addressed. Assessing the motivation (A) comes later in the change process once the problem has been diagnosed. Choosing a change agent (B) and maintaining the change (D) are also important steps in the change process but do not specifically involve key people in data collection as in the diagnosis phase.

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