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Nurses are valuable partners in marketing strategies because they: a. are more likely than other members of the organization to use marketing tools. b. have a strong background in using evidence to support decisions. c. have close involvement with patients, who are the target group for marketing. d. constitute the largest staff group in most healthcare organizations.

ANS: C As nurses are directly involved with patients who use services and who are the target group for marketing efforts, nurses have excellent insights into patient needs.

13. Which of the following is not important in a positive work environment, as defined by the AONE? a. Clear, open, trustful communication b. Accountability and clarity of roles and responsibilities c. Participatory decision making d. Challenge and striving for excellence

ANS: D Clear and open communication, accountability and clarity of roles, and participatory decision making are considered by the AONE to be important to a healthy environment. Challenge and excellence are not specifically identified by the AONE as important to healthy work environments.

Which of the following is most accurate regarding evidence-based practice? a. Evidence-based practice replaces continuous quality improvement. b. Evidence-based practice began with medicine and assists in determining which medical models can be applied in nursing practice. c. Effective and efficient care can already be demonstrated, which means that EBP will soon become redundant. d. EBP is generally recognized across disciplines and by policymakers as state-of-the-art clinical practice.

ANS: D EBP is recognized across nursing and other disciplines as reflective of state-of-the-art clinical practice, as it is based on best available evidence.

The unit manager is working in a large metropolitan facility and is told that two UNPs are to be assigned to work with her. Delegation begins with:

Matching tasks with qualified persons.

With delegation, responsibility and accountability remain with the:

Professional who delegates.

A nurse manager understands that the typical first step in handling an employee with a disciplinary problem is a: a. Verbal reprimand. b. Written reprimand. c. Reminder of employment standards. d. Day off without pay.

c. Reminder of employment standards.

22. In developing an orientation program, the hospital educator breaks essential organizational information down into chunks, which she develops as online modules. This is an application of which of Drucker's functions of management? a. Establishment of goals and objectives b. Motivation and communication c. Analysis and interpretation of performance d. Organization of activities into manageable tasks

ANS: D Organizing the information into online modules is an application of Drucker's organizational analysis and the division of activities, decisions, and relations into manageable tasks.

1. Role theory has its underpinnings in management theory. Management theories influence managers' leadership styles. Which of the following styles would a nurse manager be mostlikely to follow when redesigning the staffing schedule? a. Humanistic b. Authoritarian c. Flexibility d. Participative

ANS: D Participative style of leadership allows for the input by the participants involved to have input to the decision process. This assists in making change easier and is one way a manager uses this leadership to lead the unit.

Which of the following needs revision on a résumé or CV? a. John Jones 87 Highway Drive City, MI 79110 [email protected] b. M. Howes Anyway Highway City, MO 77700 (H) 777-777-0000 e-mail: [email protected] c. Dr. L. Jones 99 Carway Drive City, NY 84003 (H) 999-999-0000 (Cell) 999-000-9999 d. Tanya Jones 67 Honeywell Drive City, MO 66907 [email protected]

ANS: D When including Web or e-mail addresses, it is important to use addresses that are not overly casual or that communicate personal information.

To meet the social and human needs of a target market, it is critical to: a. assess the needs and priorities of the target market. b. revise the organization's mission statement to reflect external needs. c. assess the internal culture and needs. d. develop highly sophisticated media.

ANS: A Marketing emphasizes the identification and meeting of human and social needs, which can only be known through assessment of the needs of the consumer (as opposed to the needs of the organization).

Northwestern Hospital has decided to implement peer review. As a clinical leader in the Emergency Department, you have overall responsibility for ensuring that this is in place by next month. The most important step in this process is to: a. provide an educational session for staff on peer review. b. revise the mission statement, objectives, and performance standards. c. develop objectives and performance standards with employees. d. implement objectives and performance standards.

ANS: A Once a strategic plan has been developed, the next step is open communication and execution of the specific plan, which, in this instance, is peer review.

A mediator suggested that the nurse manager and staff members decide on a method to resolve conflicts. It is important to have agreements about how team members will work together because: a. if there are no agreements, each member will make up rules about how to handle disagreements and relationships. b. people are naturally difficult and will not work well together without such agreements. c. people will naturally ask for agreements about how to be together. d. a way to eliminate nonproductive team members must be available.

ANS: A People must agree on the goals and mission with which they are involved. They have to reach some understanding of how they will exist together. Tenets or agreements such as "I will respectfully speak promptly with any team member with whom I have a problem" go a long way to avoid gossiping, backbiting, bickering, and misinterpreting others. Without agreement, people have implicit permission to behave in any manner they choose toward one another, including angry, hostile, hurtful, and acting-out behavior.

From the information presented in this chapter, which of the following statements best defines an accomplished team? Effective teams: a. can create a form of synergism in which the outcome is greater than the sum of the individual performances. b. do not necessarily need goals, objectives, vision, and a clearly stated purpose. c. do not always have effective communication patterns. d. may or may not have a clear plan that is followed and revisited and has an ongoing evaluation scheme.

ANS: A Research on team building over many years has established that high-functioning teams are characterized by synergy that takes the team from a collection of individuals to an outcome that is greater than the sum of the parts.

The reasons cited by nursing administrators for not planning in a systematic manner include: a. lack of understanding of the planning process. b. lack of knowledge regarding the internal and external operations of the organization. c. not enough hours in the day for both day-to-day operations and planning. d. delegation of the task to subordinates.

ANS: A The nurse manager should participate in strategic planning and quality initiatives with the governing body. Lack of knowledge is a common reason for nonparticipation in planning initiatives.

Trust is an important aspect of helping relationships, therapeutic communications, and the positive communications model. Which statement does not involve or define trust? Trust: a. involves decisions to manipulate situations to gain advantage over another. b. is the basis by which leaders facilitate the activities and progress of a team. c. is low among members and leaders in poorly performing teams. d. involves what we say and not necessarily what we do.

ANS: A Trust is high in high-performing teams and involves not consciously taking advantage of others and behaving in a way that inspires trust. It is the basis by which leaders facilitate the activities and progress of a team.

The chief nursing officer decided that the nurse managers need a series of staff-development programs on team building through communication and partnerships. She understood that the nurse managers needed to build confidence in ways of handling various situations. The greatest deterrent to confidence is: a. lack of clarity in the mission. b. lack of control of the environment. c. fear that one can't handle the consequences. d. fear that the boss will not like one's work.

ANS: C Fear of not being able to manage consequences undermines confidence and a sense of competency.

The chief nursing officer works with her nurse managers by helping them understand how to develop and implement a budget. A nurse manager can best describe a budget as a: a. day-to-day plan for operations. b. unit of service. c. statement of revenues and services. d. financial plan.

ANS: D Rationale: The budget is an overall financial plan that reflects organizational assumptions, objectives, and standards, and various types of budget planning, including operational and capital budgets, which, in turn, reflect revenues and costs.

3. John notes that the next section is specific to the organizational philosophy and has a 4-point ordinal scale that describes performance from "always meets expectations" to "does not meet expectations." This type of evaluation is most commonly known as: a. a behavior-anchored rating scale. b. management by objectives/learning goals. c. the forced distribution scale. d. a graphic rating scale.

ANS: D Graphic rating scales are commonly used in evaluation and reflect generalizations rather than specific behaviors.

You ask Evelyn, a new UNP, to check what is left in Mrs. N.'s inhaler when Evelyn makes visits to Mrs. N. and also to check whether Mrs. N. is receiving any positive effect from the medication. Evelyn reports for 3 weeks that Mrs. N. is using the inhaler and that there is enough medication left in the device. The day of her last visit to Mrs. N., Mrs. N. is admitted to the hospital in severe respiratory distress. When she is admitted, she tells the physician that she has not been using the inhaler for 4 weeks. Determination of Evelyn's educational preparation and certification is related to the concept of:

Authority.

A group of staff nurses and a nurse manager in an unrepresented facility have been unable to resolve a conflict regarding a change in protocol. Their agreeing to have a nurse from another unit assist them in their group process is an example of: a. Negotiation. b. Facilitation. c. Mediation. d. Arbitration.

B

Government and third-party payers announce reduction of compensation for the delivery of patient services. Hospital STV has a flat organizational structure. After the funding announcements, senior officials at the hospital meet and make decisions regarding cost containment of new revenue streams. This action is consistent with: a. The practice of leaving financial decisions with senior officials who understand the total context of funding. b. A tendency to concentrate decision making during economic downturns at the top administrative level. c. A need to make expedient decisions that are likely to be poorly received by staff. d. Ensuring that decisions with regard to cost are made equitably across all departments.

B

In accomplishing the goal of breakfast for children in elementary school, Leanne is particularly effective in approaching businesses with the needs that the group has determined and articulating the ways that the group has found for businesses to participate. Leanne is exemplifying: a. Leadership. b. Followership. c. Professionalism. d. Knowledge of context.

B

You are a member of a team assigned to care for 15 general medical/surgical clients. You have all worked well together in the past in this same type of care. If you are assigned to coordinate this team's work, your best strategy, based on the Hersey and Blanchard model, would be to:

Provide minimal direction and let them come to you with questions.

Leslie, a UNP, transfers a patient while using improper technique. The patient is injured, and as a result, a suit is launched in which both Sarah (the delegator) and Leslie (the delegatee) are named. Sarah is named in the suit because she:

Retains accountability for the outcomes of care for the patient.

The nursing director calls a meeting with one of the new unit managers. She is very concerned about a report of substance abuse on the manager's unit, and she reviews the procedures involved in dealing with chemically dependent staff. Which of the following statements would not be included in the discussion?

Should realize that the nurse is a professional embarrassment and should be kept out of sight of other staff."

A key advantage that a nurse manager has in terms of delegating is that:

Team skills can be used more effectively.

The unit manager on 4E is concerned about the performance of Jean, a staff nurse. She is not involved directly with Jean, so she has not been able to determine whether the problem is one of motivation, ability, or both. If Jean lacks ability, which of the following strategies might the head nurse use? a. Dismiss or transfer Jean. b. Document all problem areas and then discuss them with Jean. c. Develop appropriate solutions and make recommendations to Human Resources. d. Smooth over the problems if they are minor in nature.

b. Document all problem areas and then discuss them with Jean.

Corrine, a student nurse, often hears that nurses are gatekeepers and wonders what that term means. As a nurse leader, you explain that this is a reference to the: a.Assessment and admission of patients into care. b.Orientation of patients to services once they are admitted. c.Function of controlling which patients see the physician and which do not. d.Coordination of care, services, advocacy, and access for patients within the healthcare system.

D As gatekeepers to the system, nurses advocate for and coordinate care, services, and access for patients across all providers, settings, and levels of care.

You are involved in designing a clinic for women in an inner-city neighborhood. A goal of this clinic might be: a.Development of services that are identified in various studies as important for this target group. b.Partnership with area city councilors and health professionals to provide services that are consistent with their vision and funding sources. c.Provision of immunization and addictions services and health screening services for women in the area. d.Development of services that have been identified by the women and neighborhood advocates as necessary for their health care.

D Involvement of persons in their own health care is a cornerstone of healthcare reform and is important for improving health outcomes and patient experiences. While studies and partnership with key informants are important sources of information in the design of services, engagement of the women through their neighborhood advocates may increase activation and resulting behavior. Patient activation refers to patients' willingness and ability to take independent actions to manage their health and care.

An example of a factor that would impede a patient's learning is: a.Poverty. b.Limited health insurance. c.Being an older adult. d.Heavy sedation.

D Nurses need to be sensitive to the teaching needs of those at risk for disparities in health care: persons of a different race or ethnic group, women, children, older adults, rural residents, and those with limited or no health insurance, low health literacy, and/or low socioeconomic status. It is important that lower expectations for persons who are disadvantaged, have a low literacy level, or have limited English proficiency are not unintentionally communicated.

A nurse makes a medication error that is not serious and does not cause harm to the patient. As the head nurse, your best action would be to: a.Call attention to it by posting the critical incidents report at the nursing station. b.Include the mistake on the nurse's performance appraisal. c.Apologize to the patient for the error, and indicate that discipline has occurred. d.Educate the nurse on how to provide an apology to the patient.

D Service recovery ensures responsiveness to the patient, and as part of service recovery, it is important to address an error in the most productive way, which also includes the nurse who made the error offering an apology to the patient.

You are working in a home health service and have 3 UNPs assigned to your team. You have worked with two; the third is new. The two experienced UNPs have patients with complex illnesses. The third has been assigned to patients with less complex illnesses.

Meet the new staff member at the first patient care site and call the others with questions to determine whether anything is unusual.

Which of the following exemplifies accountability? Karen, the nurse manager on 5E:

Outlines her rationale for reduction of RN coverage on nights to the Nursing Practice Committee after serious patient injury.

Functions such as "delegates tasks to assistive personnel" that are outlined in a position description for an RN Team Leader would be considered:

Passive delegation.

Incivility is a disruptive behavior or communication that creates a negative environment and interferes with quality patient care and safety. The manager can implement steps that help to alleviate uncivil behavior on a unit. Which of the following would NOT be an appropriate first step? a. Suspending the staff member from work b. Providing written admonishment that is discussed and placed in the employee's file c. Providing verbal admonishment d. Terminating the staff member

d. Terminating the staff member

The nurse manager knows that the most serious effect that absenteeism has on the nursing unit is that: a.Using replacement personnel with new ideas may be beneficial. b.Salary costs are lower because personnel are fewer, and outcome is favorable. c.Absence on the part of the rest of the staff is decreased. d.Unacceptable patient care may result.

d. Unacceptable patient care may result.

An RN colleague, who is a long-standing and collaborative member of your team, is performing a complex and novel dressing for the first time for the patient to whom she has been assigned. Which of the following would be the most appropriate communication with her?

"Here is what you need for the dressing, and I will show you what needs to be done."

Which of the following indicates safe delegation?

A unit manager agrees to release a staff from her unit to Unit B. The staff member she agrees to release is experienced on Unit B and is agreeable to the change. The unit manager's unit is fully staffed and patients are stable.

A staff nurse regularly works two 12-hour shifts each week and one 8-hour shift every other week. How many FTEs is this position? a. 0.6 b. 0.7 c. 0.8 d. 1

ANS: B Rationale: Assuming that a full-time RN works 2080 hours/year (40 hours x 52 weeks), the nurse works (24 hours x 52 weeks + 8 hours x 26 weeks)/2080, which is 0.7 FTE.

Collective action is effective in: a. Ensuring that needs of nurses are placed ahead of other disciplines. b. Defining nursing as a profession. c. Advising patients of the needs of nurses. d. Amplifying the influence of individuals.

D

9. The day shift nurse asks an LPN/LVN to complete a task for a patient. The day shift nurse is engaging in what function? a. Delegating b. Assigning c. Sharing d. Authorizing

ANS: B Delegation refers to transfer of responsibility for work; the day shift nurse retains accountability for the outcomes of patient care therefore is using assigning of the task rather than delegation.

In delegating to a UNP in a home health setting, which of the following represents the most appropriate delegation communication?

"Mrs. S. needs help to get into and out of her bathtub. Her bath will need to be completed by 10:00. When you are helping her to dry, please check between her toes and toenails, and phone me by 10:30 if you notice nail discoloration or redness."

Nurses in an emergency department, in an inner-city neighborhood characterized by high levels of violence, are concerned with low levels of security presence in their department. Security levels have recently been decreased. An appropriate action would be to: a. Provide information about the decision related to recent changes in staffing. b. Refer the matter to the head of security and let her deal with it. c. Provide mentors who can help nurses diffuse aggressiveness. d. Accept the security levels as a consequence of funding realities.

A

An example of a care activity that would likely not be delegated by an RN to a UNP is (select all that apply):

1.Teaching self-catheterization to a patient with paraplegia who has limited English. 2.Basic care for a patient with a head injury who is rapidly deteriorating. 3.Assessment of patients being admitted through the Emergency Department.

Sandra, an RN on the surgery unit, is assisting with a procedure in the patient examination room. The physician orders a medication to be given through IV. Sandra questions the order, based on her knowledge of the patient's history and of other medications that the patient has been given. The physician reiterates the order and Sandra refuses to give it. In this instance, Sandra is demonstrating: a. Autonomy. b. Accountability. c. Authority. d. Best practice.

A

A nursing unit is interested in refining its self-medication processes. In beginning this process, the team is interested in how frequently errors occur with different patients. To assist with visualizing this question, which organizational tool is most appropriate? a. Histogram b. Flowchart c. Fishbone diagram d. Pareto chart

ANS: A Histograms are bar graphs that are useful in outlining and identifying frequency.

Sarah determines, in partnership with her patient, that current medications are not enabling her patient, a married account executive with fibromyalgia, to continue with her employment and family responsibilities. After searching for additional information on fibromyalgia, Sarah finds nonpharmacologic interventions that are supported through credible evidence. Sarah suggests that the patient, her physician, and she meet to discuss the medications and possible options and a plan of care for the patient's discharge. This action exemplifies which of the four historical concepts identified by Lewis and Batey? a. Authority b. Responsibility c. Communication of conflict d. Autonomy

A

A Magnet hospital surveys the staff about job satisfaction. This type of environment, in which nurses have authority and autonomy, is linked with: a. Client satisfaction with the healthcare organization. b. Organizations with a limited number of nurse managers. c. Private, specialty organizations in urban areas. d. Sophisticated academic health sciences universities.

A

As a new nurse manager who has "inherited" a unit with high nurse turnover and complaints of patient dissatisfaction, your first course of action would be to: a. Conduct an organizational assessment of the unit. b. Review the personnel files of nurses who have resigned. c. Interview upper management about their vision for the unit. d. Meet with your staff to clarify your vision for the unit.

A

Senior executives at Hospital A determine that the hospital will engage in a strategic planning process after changes in healthcare funding and concerns expressed in the community about care that is being delivered at the hospital. The senior executives decide on a participatory process in which staff are widely consulted regarding input about the organization and the external environment and are actively invited to be part of decisions related to mission statement, goals, and objectives. For true shared governance to be seen as part of this approach: a. It must be evident in the outcomes of the process that staff and senior executives have partnered on the decisions. b. Stakeholders must be assured of the value of their input even though final decisions rest with senior executives. c. Publications must clearly outline how staff input was solicited and obtained. d. Staff must be reassured that significant concerns will be kept in mind even if they have not been addressed in planning documents.

A

The emergency department staff decides to use a collective bargaining model for negotiation, rather than a traditional trade union model. A traditional trade union model is characterized by: a. An adversarial relationship. b. Management support of labor's initiatives. c. A spirit of trust between management and labor. d. An ability to resolve complaints.

A

You are hired as a new manager. When the offer of employment is made, you agree to at-will employment. Later, you become very concerned about the policies and practices of your organization and their impact on patient care. You speak with your supervisor several times about your concerns, but no action is taken. In considering your next steps, you: a. consider your increased vulnerability under the terms of your employment. b. recognize that your supervisor is more vulnerable than you are because of her more senior position. c. are more likely as a leader to take action because you are well protected from repercussions by federal and state regulations. d. contact your union to discuss your concerns and review your options.

A

The nurse manager understands that the three Ps associated with client education are philosophy, priority, and performance. Effective client education programs start with a shared philosophy that such programs are worth the investment. Evidence of a philosophic commitment to client teaching is best represented by: a.Investing time and energy in teaching clients. b.Developing teaching skills among the nursing staff. c.Assuming that clients lack the knowledge they need. d.Having a teaching checklist on clients' charts.

A A philosophy that patient education is an investment with a significant positive return is one of the three Ps of a successful consumer education focus. Money invested in teaching is money well spent.

In designing a program for young adults regarding safe sexual practices, which of the following might reach the greatest number in your target group? a.Web-based applications b.Print-based media such as newspapers c.Television advertisements d.Brochures in kiosks in malls

A Mobile technology is changing the digital divide, with young adults, minorities, those with no college experience, and those with lower household incomes being more likely to indicate that phones are their main source of Internet access (Zickuhr & Smith).

Based on data from the patient satisfaction survey, the nurse manager decides that a change should be made in communication with family members. What would be important for a nurse manager to consider when instituting a change to improve customer service? a.Assess the perceptions of the nursing staff regarding the particular service problem. b.Include community representatives on a planning committee to address the change. c.Involve physicians, other healthcare professionals, and ancillary staff. d.Review all patient complaints with the nursing staff.

A Nurses are the healthcare providers who spend the most time with the consumer and are in an opportune position to understand the issues, structures, and processes that affect patients. The nurse acts as the primary person to be alert to circumstances that may prevent a successful outcome for the patient and to intervene on the patient's behalf. As a nurse manager, it is important to support staff in their use of power to be in control and to make decisions at the consumer-staff level of interaction.

As a nurse manager, you see an opportunity for patients to be well serviced through the medical home concept. You recognize that the concept of medical homes: a.Currently does not include nurses in its vision of multifaceted primary care. b.Includes nurses as part of an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary team. c.Restricts nurses to services related to direct care and procedures. d.Cannot encompass nurses within this framework.

A The concept of medical homes encompasses the idea of multifaceted medical homes that provide a usual source of health care. Current discussions have focused on physician-directed care even though nurses in advanced practice are well suited to lead teams in this model.

The chief nursing officer is pleased with the nurse manager's strategy of improving patient satisfaction in the pediatric intensive care unit. She decides to implement these changes throughout the hospital. What would be important to consider in implementing a new program focused on improving relationships with consumers? a.Recognition of the nursing staff for excellence in promoting consumer relationships b.Holding the staff accountable for resolving patient complaints c.Selecting a staff nurse leader to implement the program d.Identifying key staff members who have already demonstrated excellence in consumer relationships

A The nurse leader should allow professionals more influence over their practice;give staff opportunities to learn new and varied skills; give recognition and reward for success and support and consolation for lack of success; and foster motivation and belief in the importance of each individual and the value of his or her contribution.

Martin, the unit manager, receives complaints from community agencies that patients who have been discharged from his unit seem to lack understanding about their disorder and immediate strategies for managing elements of their care. Martin checks the patient teaching sheets and notes that the sheets are initialed by staff. He calls the agencies and indicates that teaching has been done. Potential outcomes of Martin's actions include: (Select all that apply.) a. poor morale on the unit. b. disruption in community relationships. c. corruption of patient-staff relationships. d. patient outcomes for quality care are met.

A B C

Which of the following activities would represent a customer-friendly approach in a healthcare setting? (Select all that apply.) a.Using a local anesthetic before inserting a needle into a child's arm b.Repeating patient history information to the admitting clerk, the admitting nurse, and the ultrasound technician c.Ensuring that birthing preferences are on file and available when a laboring mother comes in d.Providing support to families when a family member is brought into trauma

A, C, D A service orientation means delivering services in a manner that is least disruptive. When possible, services should come to the patient and should be as easy, comfortable, pleasant, and effective as possible. Meeting the emotional, psychosocial, and spiritual needs of the patient is important.

The difference between a nurse practitioner's charge of $45 for an office visit and the insurance company's payment of $34 is: a. a contractual allowance. b. a profit. c. a flat rate. d. revenue.

ANS: A Rationale: Because the amount that is allowed for an office visit is less than the amount that the NP charges, this is known as a contractual allowance or discount. If the amount allowed were more than what the NP charges, then a profit would be realized. All of the answers represent sources of revenue.

Physicians in a small urban hospital are reluctant to discharge older adult patients because many of the patients lack private insurance and the resources to travel distances for follow-up care. The hospital administration pressures the physicians to discharge patients sooner and to be more consistent with the number of hospitalization days specified within the DRGs. Which of the following would most likely prompt the action of administrators? a. The hospital is incurring a deficit related to a gap between the PPS and the DRGs and costs of care. b. Local home care services are expressing concern about the increased acuity of patients being discharged into their care. c. The resource-based relative scale for physicians does not account for the increased length of stay. d. Acute care patients are being denied entry to the hospital because of the increased stay of patients.

ANS: A Rationale: Length of stay (LOS) is the most important predictor of healthcare costs and extra days are a cost to the organization in terms of both the extra days and decreased patient volume. The situation, as outlined, does not indicate that there is a bed shortage and therefore, there is no evidence that other patients are being denied access to services or that additional patient volume is not being captured. The hospital would be concerned about the impact on its income because of the additional, uncompensated care costs incurred for patients who exceed the usual length of stay explicitly calculated under PPS and the DRGs.

Of the following, which is the most effective strategy that a nurse manager could employ to reduce unnecessary costs in specific healthcare settings? a. Training nurses on accurate documentation of supplies used for patient care b. Reducing the number of overtime hours worked by staff c. Reducing the number of staff on a unit d. Making decisions for patients about which care is important to their health

ANS: A Rationale: Reducing overtime hours needs to be carefully assessed against the reasons for overtime (e.g., staff overload, recent illnesses, increased acuity) in terms of whether this reflects an ongoing or temporary situation and therefore whether it is a necessary variance or not. Reducing staff may or may not be effective, depending on the services being provided. Making decisions for the patient misses an important opportunity to invite the patient into discussion about patient priorities and needs and relative costs of options, which may lead to improved adherence with regimens and less waste of resources. An effective approach to cost containment is ensuring that supplies are accurately accounted for and charged in a timely manner.

Because of the complexity of reimbursement systems and its implications for the services available to patients, the nurse has a key role in: a. advocacy for patients with regard to services required and services utilized. b. increasing the volume of services and decreasing the number of patients served. c. accomplishing more with each visit and decreasing the volume of services used. d. decreasing the volume of services used and the number of return visits.

ANS: A Rationale: The specific strategies employed by organizations and nurses to contain costs and increase revenues depend on the reimbursement system(s) within which the organization operates and therefore on whether the volume of services is increased or whether the volume of services is decreased by placing greater emphasis on efficacy in each visit and reducing the number of return visits. Because of the complexity of the reimbursement environment, the nurse is placed in a position of advocacy in terms of what the patient needs and how those needs can be best met within the funding structures.

An example of an initiative that may reduce total healthcare costs would be: a. offering nurse practitioner-led clinics that educate parents about non-pharmacologic strategies for managing ear infections. b. educating seniors about the comparative costs of medications that are prescribed to them. c. lowering copayments for prescription drugs for seniors. d. advocating for more readily available MRI services to ensure early diagnosis.

ANS: A Rationale: Total healthcare costs are a function of prices that are established for various services and the volume or quantity of services used. Utilization of high-tech diagnostic services and lowering of copayments have been implicated in increasing total healthcare costs (thus C and D would not be correct), as well as attitudes and behaviors of consumers of health care. In general, consumers prefer to "be fixed" when something goes wrong rather than to practice prevention. Many consumers still believe that the physician knows best, so they do not seek much information related to costs and effectiveness of different healthcare options. When information is sought, it is not readily available or understandable. Also, consumers are not accustomed to using other, less costly healthcare providers, such as nurse practitioners.

9. The risk manager wants to evaluate the reasons for an increased number of falls on the rehab unit. The risk manager devises a fishbone diagram. A fishbone diagram is a useful tool to: a. identify the root causes of problems. b. list possible solutions to problems. c. help leaders select the best options. d. evaluate the outcomes of decisions made.

ANS: A A fishbone diagram, also known as a cause-and-effect diagram, is useful for determining the reasons (causes) for an effect (falls).

The nurse manager wants to use evidence-based recommendations to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia. What is the critical first step to effectively gather evidence for guiding practice? a. Develop the clinical question. b. Identify the databases to be used. c. Appraise the evidence. d. Integrate available evidence with unit expertise.

ANS: A Identifying the question may be the most challenging part of the process. Once the clinical question has been identified, writing it down will help in moving on to the next step of gathering evidence.

24. You have hired Chelsea as a new staff member on your unit. Although she is an experienced ICU nurse, this is her first educator role. A month into her new position, she confides that she feels really incompetent in her new position and bursts into tears. Your response is based on application of your understanding of: a. role acquisition. b. role conflict. c. role complexity. d. performance appraisal.

ANS: A Acquisition of a role is time dependent and involves application of life experiences to each role and interpretation of the role within one's own value system. As roles become more complex, an individual may take longer to assimilate the components of each role.

22. Knowing when to have the entire team participate in the decision-making process or when to have only the team leader make the decisions depends on the situation and the desired outcomes. The autocratic process is used in which of the following situations? a. The task and the outcome are relatively simple and defined. b. It is unlikely that the group will reach a consensus. c. A decision has to be discussed thoroughly. d. A number of options need to be considered.

ANS: A An autocratic style is appropriate when rapid decision making is required and in situations where the task and the potential outcome are well-defined.

12. The validity of comments and ratings related to performance is enhanced by: a. maintenance of anecdotal notes over the entire evaluation period. b. quantity of information gathered for appraisal purposes. c. agreement of the employee with the ratings and comments. d. whether or not other individuals have contributed to the observations.

ANS: A Anecdotal notes compiled consistently over the entire rating period are a much more equitable method of providing an accurate summary of the employee's performance.

After a major flu vaccination campaign, an agency bills a private insurance company for allowable costs for administration of each vaccination according to the schedule established by the insurance company for reimbursement. This is an example of which major payment method? a. Cost-based reimbursement b. Charges c. Contractual allowance d. Prospective reimbursement

ANS: A Because the agency is submitting costs after the campaign is completed and in accordance with an established schedule of allowable costs, a retrospective, cost-based reimbursement payment method is being utilized. If a desire for profit was indicated, then the answer would be "charges."

19. As a manager, you are interested in developing behavioral questions for an interview. Knowing that there is team conflict at times on your unit, which of the following questions would satisfy your interest in behavioral questions? a. "Tell me about a time you were involved in a conflict related to a project. What was your role in the conflict? In the resolution of the conflict?" b. "If you were to employ one strategy for managing conflict, what would it be?" c. "What is your preferred style of conflict resolution?" d. "How effective are you in working in a group? In dealing with conflict?"

ANS: A Behavioral questions seek demonstrated examples of behavior from the candidate's past experiences; behavioral-based interviewing can be a strong predictor of a future employee.

8. The biggest challenge in the recruitment of staff is: a. finding well-qualified candidates who can function well within your particular work culture. b. recruiting individuals with the appropriate qualifications and experience. c. screening out candidates who are unable to function well within a team. d. determining if candidates have had previous negative experiences in a work environment.

ANS: A Choosing the right individual is the challenge for managers and involves finding qualified candidates who will work well within your culture.

23. A survey of staff satisfaction is conducted. The survey indicates that staff members are satisfied, are loyal to the organization, and feel that they have reasonable control in their individual responsibilities. The findings best exemplify: a. clarity in roles and valuing of contributions. b. satisfaction but not empowerment. c. effective coaching of new staff. d. role attachment.

ANS: A Commitment, a sense of control, and satisfaction are linked to clear role expectations and a feeling that contributions are valued.

Hospital Magnet® decides against creating a separate department to lead and monitor quality activities because: a. total organizational involvement is critical to QI. b. data generated by a single, separate department are generally flawed. c. monitoring and commitment to QI can come only from senior-level managers. d. staff resent suggestions for improvement that originate outside of their unit.

ANS: A Decentralized approaches are effective in developing unit-level solutions, as well as commitment to strategies and implementation of changes.

Once evidence related to the use of prompted voiding in patients with cognitive impairment has been appraised and integrated with practice, it is important to: a. consider whether patients' families see this as necessary for the well-being of family members. b. search large databases such as CINAHL to amass further evidence. c. clarify the clinical practice question. d. solicit input regarding integration with practice.

ANS: A EBP is the integration of best research evidence with clinical expertise and the patients' unique values and circumstances. In this situation, the family's values and preferences would be considered. Search of databases, clarification of the question, and gaining staff input would occur in the process.

The chief nursing officer at a local hospital seeking Magnet® status creates staff development classes about incorporating evidence-based practice in nursing. What best describes evidence-based practice? a. Applying best research evidence to care of patients b. Using research-based information to develop practice guidelines c. Conducting a randomized control trial to determine effectiveness of handwashing techniques d. Developing standards for practice

ANS: A Evidence-based medicine is derived from evidence-based medicine and involves integration of the best research evidence with clinical expertise and the patient's unique values and circumstances in making decisions about the care of individual patients. It is focused on searching for, appraising, and synthesizing the best evidence to address a specific clinical practice problem.

Through the QI process, the need to transform and change the admissions process across administrative and patient care units is identified. In this particular situation, what method of data organization will be most effective? a. Flowchart b. Histogram c. Narrative d. Line graphs

ANS: A Flowcharts are useful in identifying and visualizing sequential steps, such as the admissions process.

2. The nurse manager of a rehab unit wants to purchase a new antiembolic stocking for use with patients. To make a high-quality decision, the nurse manager would: a. involve the rehab staff in the decision. b. involve the sales representative. c. make the decision alone. d. involve administration in the decision.

ANS: A In a shared decision model, the decisions are made through an interactive, deliberate process and the staff may express and discuss options and preferences. The shared decision model has been shown to increase work performance and productivity, decrease employee turnover, and enhance employee satisfaction.

13. The maintenance department wishes to have the nursing lounge renovated, so the lounge will be more "user-friendly." The department asks the nursing staff to make a wish list of everything that they would like to see in the new lounge. This process is an example of which part of the decision-making process? a. Assessment/Data collection b. Planning c. Data interpretation d. Generating hypotheses

ANS: A In this particular model (a model similar to the nursing model), data collection is the first step toward identifying important alternatives or determining if there is a problem or problems.

12. Becky graduated 5 years ago and is keenly interested in pursuing leadership opportunities. She has been active in learning about leadership through workshops and Internet research and recently began a graduate degree program with a focus on nursing administration. She has excellent clinical skills and eagerly accepts responsibility for various projects on the unit. Her sarcastic and sometimes aggressive behavior tends to alienate other staff members on the unit. In coaching Becky, you: a. suggest that she reflect on situations in which she has had a positive influence and consider how her interactions contributed to the situation. b. suggest that she not consider leadership roles because her interaction skills are more suited to roles in which she has limited opportunities to work with others. c. ask staff members on the unit with whom she works to provide her feedback about ways in which her behavior irritates or turns them away. d. encourage her to continue her graduate courses, as information about strategies and technical aspects of the role will compensate for negative interactions.

ANS: A Leadership involves radiating positive energy and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Management can be taught through formal instruction, but leadership is attained through reflection on rich personal experience.

17. The adage "leaders are born and not made" reflects which of the following ideas around leadership? a. Management can be taught; leadership depends on abilities. b. Mentorship is important in developing innate skills of leaders. c. Leadership is a natural skill that cannot be refined or developed. d. Succession planning and formal education related to leadership are ineffective.

ANS: A Leadership is an abilities role that is reflective of rich personal experience. It can be developed and refined through such strategies as coaching, mentorship, and reflection. Management can be taught and learned.

Hospital ABCD is a Magnet® hospital. One reason this designation has been applied to Hospital ABCD because it: a. facilitates active staff participation in decision making related to quality nursing care. b. has implemented a graduate nurse orientation program. c. espouses commitment to excellence in patient care. d. is establishing career ladders for nurses.

ANS: A Magnet® hospitals are particularly successful in implementing excellence in patient care through use of standards, evidence, and participatory decision making in quality improvement. Organizations that cannot pursue Magnet® status can implement strategies such as career ladders.

6. The nurse manager is anticipating changes on the unit because of managed care. It is up to the manager to "sell" the staff on this care concept. A goal of managed care that the staff must understand is that managed care is: a. grounded in business theory. b. useful for long-term patients only. c. designed to reduce unit resources and staff. d. not concerned with the best interests of clients.

ANS: A Managed care combines delivery of needed care with business principles of efficiency and cost. Nurse managers who know business principles become conduits for ensuring safe, effective, affordable care.

17. Nurses on Unit 17 complain that their manager frequently "checks up on them" and encourages little involvement in decision making and yet, during performance reviews, praises them for their outstanding performance. Nurses on Unit 18 indicate that their experience is different from that of nurses on Unit 17. The manager on Unit 18 encourages active involvement in decision making and provides authentic, growth-promoting feedback. The practices on Units 17 and 18 reflect. a. differences in the managers' expectations of their role. b. shaping of the workplace behavior of employees. c. different approaches to cooperation and collaboration. d. recognition of institutional priorities.

ANS: A Management theory addresses how managers address employees' concerns and needs and the interactions of managers with employees. Expectations of the managerial role affect expectations of self as the manager and of others. McGregor's (1960) Theory X and Theory Y made two basic opposing assumptions about employees and how the manager should interact with them. Theory X suggests that people do not like their work and that lower order needs are more important. Theory Y adopts an optimistic view in which people are seen as capable of self-direction and autonomy.

Which of the following is a meta-analysis? a. Review of 35 studies on nurse work satisfaction to determine the significance of the aggregated research findings b. Review of multiple chart audits to determine which errors are being reduced through implementation of evidence-based guidelines c. RCT comparing the effectiveness of a local anesthetic in reducing the pain of venipuncture in young children d. Analysis of factors contributing to nurse burnout and dissatisfaction at emergency room sites

ANS: A Meta-analysis statistically combines the results of several similar studies to determine whether aggregate findings are significant.

A nursing-led classification system that has led to greater reliability and standardization in data utilized for QI processes is: a. NANDA. b. AHRQ. c. NIOSH. d. nursing process.

ANS: A NANDA has been developed by nurses and uses standardized terminology that enables study of health problems across populations, settings, and caregivers.

14. A good nursing decision maker is one who: a. uses various models to guide the process based on the circumstances of the situation. b. adopts one model and uses it to guide all decision making. c. decides not to use any models because they are all useless. d. develops a new model each time a decision has to be made.

ANS: A The decision model that a nurse uses depends on specific circumstances. Is the situation routine and predictable or complex and uncertain? Is the goal to make a decision that is "just good enough" (conservative) or one that is optimal?

11. While interviewing for a nurse manager position, Ann is asked to give an example of a situation in which she demonstrated leadership. Which of the following examples exemplifies leadership? a. Through research and investigation of best practice and practice-based evidence, she proposed a change in the management of incontinence in older adult patients. b. She ensures that new policies related to parenteral infusions are implemented consistently within her team. c. When asked by her students about institutional policies, she readily and patiently interprets policies to facilitate quality care. d. She organizes the team and delegates responsibilities effectively in providing nursing care.

ANS: A Nurse managers have the responsibility of day-to-day decisions for their units and interpret established policy, procedures, and mandates. They meet their goals by organizing, staffing, controlling, and solving problems. By contrast, leaders develop a vision and translate that direction into action.

23. During a discussion of concern about approaches used with aggressive patients in the Emergency Department, several staff members express concern for their safety. As a leader, the nurse manager should: a. look directly at speakers and acknowledge their comments. b. promise to implement each suggestion that is made. c. implement the idea that receives the most discussion. d. listen but implement the plan that she had in mind before the discussion began.

ANS: A One of the five rules for leaders is to listen to the constituents—in this instance, the staff members who have safety concerns. Active listening in the United States means establishing direct eye contact and asking probing questions. Listening does not obligate the leader to any one course of action. Action will be based on what is best for the group.

An example of an effective patient outcome statement is: a. eighty percent of all patients admitted to the Emergency Department will be seen by a nurse practitioner within 3 hours of presentation in the Emergency Department. b. patients with cardiac diagnoses will be referred to cardiac rehabilitation programs. c. the hospital will reduce costs by 3% through the annual budget process. d. quality is a desired element in patient transactions.

ANS: A Patient outcome statements must be measurable, specific, and patient-centered.

5. After being interviewed for the unit manager position, the staff nurse reflects on the interview process. The staff nurse is aware that leadership begins: a. within. b. through a relationship with a mentor. c. with the job description. d. with the chief nursing officer of the organization.

ANS: A People notice differences in workplaces and tend to choose those that evidence a high degree of trust between leaders and followers. Stephen M.R. Covey suggests that trust begins with self and that leaders must focus first on developing character and confidence, which is their credibility. Credibility enables leaders to trust themselves and gives others someone or something that they can trust.

1. The nurse manager schedules evaluations of staff members using a newly developed performance appraisal tool. The development of a performance appraisal tool should include: a. organizational mission, philosophy, and position requirements. b. a generalized overview of the duties of a position. c. a skills checklist and accreditation requirements. d. an ordinal scale that ranks all employees.

ANS: A Performance appraisal tools and processes should reflect the organizational mission and philosophy, as well as position requirements.

3. A nurse executive is hired to restore a unit's productivity, which has decreased as the result of low staff morale. The nurse executive utilizes which of the following leadership principles? a. The leader declares the intent and goals to enhance productivity and assumes that the unit also wishes to increase productivity, which allows nurses to feel in control of the environment. b. If staff members increase productivity, then they are given opportunity to engage in learning events such as workshops and conferences. If the staff members are not satisfied, they will insist on a different leader, who will get them what they want. c. Leaders at the national level who are seeking relief for nurses in the workplace are seen as the solution to the nursing shortage. d. Workplace satisfaction depends on staffing ratios, adequate pay, and tuition reimbursement, and these are things the leader can control.

ANS: A Stephen M.R. Covey suggests that Smart Trust is a method for restoring trust in organizations. Smart Trust Actions include declaration of the leader's intent and assumption by the leader that others also have positive intentions. Building trust involves signaling goals and intended actions in advance. Actions such as promising external rewards such as additional learning opportunities, workload relief, and compensation are consistent with transactional leadership, which leads to low to stable commitment and limited satisfaction.

The nurse manager of an ICU wants to implement the revised policy and procedure on central line catheter care. What would be the most effective method of getting the staff nurses to incorporate a new evidence-based practice into their care? a. Conducting an interactive educational workshop b. Distributing educational materials on clinical units c. Sharing the results of a chart audit with staff d. Providing staff with a short DVD on the topic

ANS: A Suggestions for effective strategies that promote behavioral change in health professionals include active involvement strategies such as face-to-face information sessions in small groups and one-to-one interactions. Other approaches have mixed or few results.

14. Which of the following would be most in line with Hersey model and concepts? a. The team of caregivers on day shift are familiar with their roles and with the patients. The nurse manager decides to work on the unit budget in her office. b. After a year of working on the unit, Shari, an LPN, is still hesitant about many policies and procedures. The charge nurse decides to challenge Shari with more difficult patients. c. The nursing supervisor asks one of her charge nurses to lead a technology integration project. The supervisor continuously demands involvement in decisions that the charge nurse is making in the project. d. Team members complain that Alysha, an RN, is unmotivated, and that she refuses assignments that are complex or difficult. The charge nurse suggests that Alysha is relatively new and that she needs time to adjust.

ANS: A The Hersey model/framework suggests that when ability (skills, job knowledge) and willingness are strong, the involvement of the delegator is less.

In determining the relationship between injury-producing falls and proposed preventive measures as part of the QI process, a QI team might turn to which of the following for confirmatory evidence? a. NDNQI b. NANDA c. NIOSH d. AHRQ

ANS: A The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators is a national, nursing quality measurement program from the American Nurses Association that provides hospitals with unit-level performance reports with comparisons to national averages and rankings.

10. An outpatient clinic advertised for RN positions. Before authorizing an open position, the nurse manager should: a. review the position description and performance expectations for the opening. b. place an ad in the local newspaper and on the telephone job line. c. review all current applications on file. d. look for employees within the system who might best fill the position.

ANS: A The position description provides the basis for this position within the organization and communicates expectations for the role. When applying for a position, researching the facility and position description will help an applicant gain insight into the organization; therefore, the position description should be current and communicate expectations.

The implementation of saline flushes for capped angiocatheters across all areas of practice in the facility is an example of: a. how multilevel and interprofessional application of a procedure can slow adoption of EBP. b. how competition among disciplines can lead to negative patient outcomes. c. the reluctance of hospital administrators to act on recommendations from EBP. d. how a safe, well-known practice outweighs the benefits of adopting a newer practice.

ANS: A The translation of research into practice operates at four levels: The individual healthcare professional, healthcare groups or teams, organizations, and the larger healthcare system or environment. The adoption of saline flushes illustrates the challenges of communicating EBP to other disciplines and organizations and of the involvement of different levels. This particular innovation needed endorsement by nurses, physicians, and pharmacists, as well as by administrators who needed evidence of lost savings to support adoption.

18. The successful integration of informatics into healthcare settings is key to: a. quality decision making related to management of resources and patient care. b. accessing current information about business practices. c. meeting the modern-day expectations of staff regarding technology use. d. speeding up calculations and decisions in budget development.

ANS: A The use of informatics to research evidence and alternative models of delivery, to compare data and solutions with those of other managers, and to enhance the coordination and delivery of patient care can assist managers in making solid decisions about resource utilization. The use of informatics is embraced by Generation X-ers and Millennials who grew up with technology, but may be more difficult for older staff.

4. The nurse on the 7-7 shift is assigning a specific component of care to an unlicensed nursing personnel (UNP) employee. The night nurse would remain: a. accountable. b. responsible. c. authoritative and liable. d. responsible and task-oriented.

ANS: A When a registered nurse delegates care to a UNP, responsibility is transferred; however, accountability for patient care is not transferred. Thus, "accountability rests within the decision to delegate while responsibility rests within the performance of the task" (Anthony and Vidal, 2010, p. 3).

Planning is a process designed to achieve goals in dynamic, competitive environments. As a new manager, what is the first step you will undertake to develop a strategic plan of action for a congestive heart failure program? a. Search the environment to determine changes that may affect the organization. b. Appraise the organization's strengths and weaknesses. c. Identify the major opportunities for and threats to the organization. d. Identify and evaluate the various strategies available to the organization.

ANS: A Assessment of the external environment is the first step in the strategic planning process.

The state of being emotionally impelled, demonstrated by a sense of passion and dedication to a project or event, describes: a. commitment. b. control. c. willingness to cooperate. d. communication.

ANS: A Commitment is described as having a sense of passion and commitment to a project without necessarily having a need to control.

The chief nursing officer has to write a strategic plan. The most difficult stage in the strategic planning process is: a. assessment of the external and internal environment. b. review of mission statement, goals, and objectives. c. identification of strategies. d. implementation of strategies

ANS: A Determination of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats requires openness to what is being said and observed and is critical to setting the stage for relevant responses in the latter phases of strategic planning.

The clinic nurse understands that the advantages of planning include: a. assisting staff in critical thinking and improving decisions. b. orienting people to react instead of act. c. forcing managers to be cost-efficient and cost-effective. d. focusing on activities, not results.

ANS: A Effective planning means that everyone in the organization manages his own work and sees how it relates to organizational goals. Being proactive means "aggressive planning" that ensures that decisions are improved and are oriented toward organizational goals.

The mediator noticed that tension was still evident between the nurse manager and staff members. He informed the chief nursing officer that to begin team building, it would be important that everyone: a. work together in a respectful, civil manner. b. use avoidance techniques when confronted with a conflict. c. develop a personal friendship with each other. d. socialize frequently outside of work.

ANS: A For team building to occur, team members need to be able to listen actively and respect one another's opinions, while feeling comfortable in openly expressing their own.

Which of the following represents an effective goal statement? a. Involve patients and families in planning health care. b. To revise clinical guidelines for incontinence care from evidence within 6 months. c. Patients and families are partners first in care planning. d. To acquire $4 million in additional funding within 12 months to support clinical education programs for dementia.

ANS: A Goal statements formalize targets for an organization. Objectives include the word to and an action word, and specify dates for attainment. Mission statements convey values and beliefs of the organization.

Which of the following would not be a characteristic of an effective team nurse leader? a. An autocratic perspective b. Excellent communication skills c. Awareness of everyone's abilities d. A genuine interest in team members

ANS: A In ineffective teams, leadership tends to be autocratic and rigid, and the team's communication style may be overly stiff and formal. Members tend to be uncomfortable with conflict or disagreement, avoiding and suppressing it rather than using it as a catalyst for change. When criticism is offered, it may be destructive, personal, and hurtful rather than constructive and problem-centered. Team members may begin to hide their feelings of resentment or disagreement, sensing that they are "dangerous." This creates the potential for later eruptions and discord.

The primary difference between a résumé and a CV is that a résumé: a. reflects your skills, knowledge, and background in relation to a specific position. b. offers a detailed listing of positions held and where positions were held. c. includes a long and detailed explanation of academic and work experience. d. provides contact information and focuses on your background, in general.

ANS: A A résumé is a short, customized overview of your professional life that relates to the qualifications of specific positions and how you are able to match your background to the qualifications that are desired. Provision of contact information is common to both the résumé and the CV. Résumés are more effective if details of particular positions that have been held are highlighted as compared with a detailed listing of positions held.

A new graduate is seeking a new position in nursing and wants to "sell" herself effectively. The best strategy is to: a. create a résumé. b. practice interviewing. c. call the personnel offices. d. create a curriculum vitae.

ANS: A A résumé provides a customized overview of details of your professional background that relates specifically to a position for which you are applying. Résumés advertise your skills to a prospective employer.

Knowing your professional strengths is important to: a. find your fit in positions and a career path. b. maintain a professional status. c. act in a manner that is legal and ethical. d. understand the role expectations of a position.

ANS: A Being aware of your strengths is critical in determining what you will bring to a position and can be used to find your fit and possible career path. Knowledge and experience are important in maintaining the privilege of belonging to a profession and of behaving ethically and legally

A functional résumé focuses on: a. experience and skills gained in positions. b. positions held and specific roles in the positions. c. academic qualifications and achievements. d. relating skills and experience to qualifications in a specific position.

ANS: A Functional résumés highlight skills and experience gained rather the details of specific positions. As with résumés in general, skills and experiences are customized to create an image of an individual in a particular position.

Steady state styles would be most likely in which of the following situations? a. Small hospital, in an isolated rural setting, with limited hierarchy b. Large urban teaching hospital c. Health network with several organizations d. Travel nurse agency

ANS: A Steady state career styles (career-long commitment to a particular position) are more likely in rural settings, where commitment to the community is high and alternative career opportunities are limited.

1. In a busy rehabilitation unit, the team manager decided that the best way to reward the staff was to give them a monetary bonus rather than time off. The staff was very concerned about the decision and went to the administration with a number of complaints. Critical thinking is a process that entails a number of steps. What steps did the manager omit? She should have:(Select all that apply.) a. identified what assumptions were underpinning the issues. b. considered why it was important to make this change or the context for the change. c. considered how this change might affect staff relationships. d. attained a majority consensus of all staff.

ANS: A, B, C Taking a majority consensus is not a step in the critical thinking process. Points A, B, and C are "what," "why," and "how" questions that are part of effective critical thinking processes.

A nurse manager introduces prompted voiding into nursing practice on a unit, which is supported by clinical guidelines based on evidence-based practice. The nurses on the unit resist implementation, indicating that the bathroom facilities are too far away for efficient implementation of the guidelines, and that resources are too few to accomplish the initial voiding observations. For the nurse manager in this situation, it is important to have further discussion with the staff regarding: (Select all that apply.) a. compatibility of this intervention with the values of staff on the unit. b. advantages of prompted voiding over incontinence products and catheterizations. c. usefulness of prompted voiding with the particular population of patients on the unit. d. feasibility of the program with respect to unit design.

ANS: A, B, C, D Various theories related to the translation of evidence into practice point to strategies for success in introducing innovation and EBP on units, including determination of how well the innovation fits with the values of the staff; benefits of this practice or innovation over current practice; appropriateness of the innovation or practice for the target group for which the practice is intended; and the feasibility of the innovation from a variety of perspectives, including the physical design or layout of a unit.

1. An example of a nursing care activity that would not be delegated by an RN to a UNP is: (Select all that apply.) a. teaching self-catheterization to a patient with paraplegia who has limited English. b. basic care for a patient with a head injury who is rapidly deteriorating. c. one-to-one observation with a suicidal patient. d. assessment of patients being admitted through the Emergency Department. e. basic hygienic care for a patient who is post MI and stable.

ANS: A, B, D Functions such as assessment, diagnosis, planning, and evaluation cannot be delegated. In addition, stability, critical thinking, time, and safety are factors that are considered in assessing whether or not to delegate care to a UNP. Teaching self-catheterization to a patient with limited English requires critical thinking; basic care for a patient who is rapidly deteriorating exemplifies concern with stability; and assessment of patients through Emergency is related to the factor of time. An exception to safety and stability in which patients may be delegated to UNPs is when patients are placed on suicide precautions

Within a healthcare environment, where the gap between revenues and costs can mean the difference between sustainability of an organization and non-sustainability of an organization or services, it is critical for nurse managers to: a. maintain a clear vision of how to trim healthcare costs. b. balance value-added services against costs and revenues. c. consistently delete programs that are of high cost. d. implement programs that bring in additional revenues.

ANS: B Rationale: To achieve and maintain financial viability, nurse managers must be able to think strategically financially and in terms of nursing care. Cutting costs by deleting programs and bringing in additional revenue through new programs and services are not in themselves strategic unless the decisions made lead to quality care, have positive outcomes, and are efficient in terms of cost.

1. A nurse manager is discussing with unit staff the repeated lack of staff compliance in documenting exercise activity for post-cardiac surgery clients. The unit's licensed practical/vocational nurses are responsible for ensuring that clients carry out the prescribed exercise regimen and that the activity is documented. Using Drucker's five basic functions of a manager, identify appropriate functions for the nurse manager to use when addressing this situation: (Select all that apply.) a. divide the necessary activities into manageable tasks, so clients adhere to the exercise regimen. b. establish objectives and goals for each area and decide who is accountable for them. c. allow clients to organize the activities. d. engage in activities that motivate the team and communicate effectively with the responsible staff members. e. analyze, appraise, and interpret the performance of responsible staff, and communicate these findings to staff management. f. allow clients to establish objectives and goals.

ANS: A, B, D, E Drucker's five basic functions include division of work into tasks, development and communication of goals and outcomes, motivation and communication, and analysis, approval, and interpretation of staff performance.

Examples of sentinel events include: (Select all that apply.) a. forceps left in an abdominal cavity. b. patient fall, with injury. c. short staffing. d. administration of morphine overdose. e. death of patient related to postpartum hemorrhage. ANS: A, B, D, E Sentinel events are serious, unexpected occurrences involving death or physical or psychological harm.

ANS: A, B, D, E Sentinel events are serious, unexpected occurrences involving death or physical or psychological harm.

A clinic nurse developed objectives for a diabetic education program. The characteristics of well-written objectives include that they should be what? (Select all that apply.) a. Achievable b. Understandable and specific c. People-oriented d. Manager-oriented e. Means-oriented f. Measurable

ANS: A, B, F The S.M.A.R.T. acronym describes the attributes of objectives: specific, measurable, agreed-upon, reasonable (achievable), and time-bound.

1. During the performance appraisal session, the manager should: (Select all that apply.) a. maintain a relaxed and professional manner. b. inquire about the employee's personal life and how it is affecting performance. c. allow the employee to express opinions orally and in writing. d. plan to give specific examples only for poor performance.

ANS: A, C During a performance appraisal, it is important to provide examples of both strong and problematic performance and to provide opportunities to express opinions. The supervisor needs to maintain a relaxed professional manner.

Mobilizing others to accomplish extraordinary things requires what leadership behaviors? (Select all that apply.) a. Celebrating the successes of others b. Demonstrating exceptional technical skills c. Imagining possibilities d. Establishing a sense of "being in this together"

ANS: A, C, D Leaders who inspire teams to accomplish extraordinary things or to display synergy model the way, inspire shared vision, challenge the status quo, and encourage the heart by celebration of success.

As an experienced nurse manager who is new to an organization, it would be important to: a. know the difference between operating and capital budgets. b. understand the budget timetable and level of involvement expected of individual managers in budget preparation. c. know why a budget is essential to the well-being of an organization. d. understand what factors drive up healthcare costs in the healthcare system.

ANS: B Rationale: Although all of the answers reflect knowledge that is critical to budgeting for nurse managers, an experienced nurse manager would likely be already familiar with general knowledge related to budgeting. The nurse manager, however, would need to become familiar with budget timetables and level of involvement expected in this specific organization because these elements of budgeting vary from work environment to work environment.

In a nurse managers' meeting, the chief nursing officer encourages the managers to brainstorm ways to reduce costs. Nurse managers have the greatest impact on reducing costs by managing: a. supplies. b. staffing. c. fixed costs. d. medication costs.

ANS: B Rationale: Because staffing constitutes the largest portion of any healthcare budget, managing the mix and numbers of staff required for patient care to meet identified outcomes will have the largest impact on budgets.

A nurse manager is planning to request three new infusion pumps at a cost of approximately $1500 each. What would BEST support the capital request? a. Number of patient care hours anticipated for the year b. Cost comparisons; how much and how often infusion pumps are used; condition of existing pumps c. Outline of cost for each pump d. Estimation of total cost; no further details

ANS: B Rationale: Complete well-documented justifications are needed because the competition for limited resources is stiff. Justifications should be developed using the principle of any business case and should include, at minimum, projected amount of use; services duplicated or replaced; safety considerations; need for space, personnel, or building renovation; effect on operational revenues and expenses; and contribution to the strategic plan.

The chief nursing office continues to seek ways to improve healthcare services to clients and to save the hospital money. However, with the federal guidelines of paying agencies based on capitation, the chief nursing office faces a challenge. Capitation provides incentives for healthcare providers to control costs by: a. providing fewer services to fewer clients. b. using fewer services per client. c. using high-technology treatments. d. requiring second opinions.

ANS: B Rationale: In a capitated environment, a single fee is paid for all services provided. To be financially viable under this reimbursement model, organizations would be interested in decreasing the volume of services used and increasing the volume of patients. High-technology treatments and second opinions may increase the number of services used.

The chief nursing officer of a Magnet® hospital has conducted a study of ways to improve healthcare services. Healthcare services that add value for clients: a. accomplish healthcare goals. b. minimize costs. c. decrease the number of services used. d. use high-technology treatments.

ANS: B Rationale: Models of reimbursement affect which services and approaches (ex: decreasing the number of services used) might be financially viable and add value for clients. It is critical to determine and advertise the value of nursing care. Services that add value are of high quality, affect health outcomes positively, and minimize costs.

After reviewing her monthly budget report, the nurse manager sees that she has a negative variance, which prompts her to change the staffing schedule. A negative or unfavorable variance in a monthly expense report may result from: a. overestimation of inflation. b. higher than expected client acuity. c. net revenue exceeding net expenses. d. not replacing staff who called in sick.

ANS: B Rationale: Variance reflects the difference between what was projected and the actual performance in a budget. When the variance is negative or unfavorable, the amount spent is more than what was budgeted (expenses exceed revenue); this may be a result of higher acuity. To help managers interpret and use variance information better, some institutions use flexible budgets that automatically account for census variances.

15. Sue, a nurse manager, discusses her concerns about the hospital's employee appraisal system with her work group, noting that it includes only one rating scale and that it means nothing unless the manager has effective relationship skills. Sue's concerns reflect which best practices associated with performance appraisal? a. Rating scales are too generalized to be considered valid or reliable. b. The effectiveness of appraisal is enhanced by a combination of methods and effective communication skills. c. BARS is considered superior to simple rating scales in terms of performance appraisal. d. Rating scales need to be designed by users to be well accepted.

ANS: B A combination of several methods is probably superior to any one method. The primary success of any performance appraisal lies in the skills and communication abilities of the manager.

4. On your unit, despite efforts to build a strong sense of team, conflict between some of the staff is ongoing. Nonetheless, you want to proceed with developing a systematic and effective performance appraisal system. Which of the following approaches would be most appropriate for you to implement? a. Peer review b. A combination of tools c. Anecdotal notes d. Rating scale

ANS: B A combination of tools is likely superior to any one method in any situation.

21. A group of managers is meeting to discuss ideas related to the successful implementation of evidence-based practice on their units. Susan has been asked by the director of care to assume leadership of these discussion groups. After two such sessions, Susan expresses disappointment to her mentor that the group seems disinterested in her ideas and that they are listening to Ken, who has much less experience with leadership. In discussing this with Susan, the mentor understands that leadership: a. is a designated role. b. must be earned. c. is more likely to be taken by someone who is more talkative. d. rarely is taken over by someone with less experience.

ANS: B A person can have an impressive title, but title or designation does not make the person a leader. A leader must have the ability to inspire others to follow.

8. Recruiting among the emerging work force (18 to 35 year olds) is a challenge for healthcare agencies. Marketing brochures should address the leadership and vision of the healthcare agency. Which of the following workplace environments will attract applicants in the emerging work force? a. A highly professional environment b. A nurturing and receptive environment c. An environment highlighted by lots of meetings, so staff members can have lots of input d. A totally online environment, so staff members will not have to interface with uncaring colleagues

ANS: B A study of student nurses who represent this age-group indicates that they want a leader who is receptive, approachable, a team player, and motivating.

With the rise of violence in the psychiatric department, the nurse manager decides that she should work with the risk manager in violence prevention. The nurse manager should: a. request all staff to accept new risk management practices. b. hold staff accountable for safe practices. c. document inappropriate behavior. d. hire more police security.

ANS: B Active involvement of staff in risk management activities is key to prevention of adverse events. Nursing has a primary role in leadership in optimizing patient outcomes, preventing patient care issues, and mitigating adverse events. Accountability for safety can be one aspect of performance evaluations.

4. During a fire drill, several psychiatric patients become agitated. The nurse manager quickly assigns a staff member to each patient. This autocratic decision style is most appropriate for: a. routine problems. b. crisis situations. c. managers who prefer a "telling" style. d. followers who cannot agree on a solution.

ANS: B An autocratic style is appropriate when rapid decision making is required, such as in a crisis situation.

9. Anecdotal notes: a. should be completed only when there are performance concerns. b. can be used to support and justify fairness in termination discussions. c. are unnecessary if the evaluation instrument is thorough. d. need to be completed at the end of a performance period.

ANS: B Anecdotal notes should be kept consistently throughout the evaluation period and should reflect both negative and positive behaviors if they are to provide an accurate assessment of performance. Anecdotal notes provide documentation to support rating scales and narrative evaluation summaries.

Before implementation of the new policy and procedure on central line catheter care, the nurse manager uses an appraisal system to evaluate the evidence. What is important in using an appraisal system to evaluate the evidence gathered in preparation for development of a new protocol? a. Limiting the search to randomized clinical trials b. Matching the appraisal tool to the type of evidence c. Eliminating qualitative research studies d. Using only preprocessed evidence

ANS: B Appraisal tools are specific to the number of studies, as well as to the study design (type of evidence), type of review, and strategy for determining the applicability of evidence to your practice.

20. You ask Evelyn, a new UNP, to check what is left in Mrs. N.'s inhaler when Evelyn makes visits to Mrs. N. and also to check whether Mrs. N. is receiving any positive effect from the medication. Evelyn reports for 3 weeks that Mrs. N. is using the inhaler and that there is enough medication left in the device. The day of her last visit to Mrs. N., Mrs. N. is admitted to the hospital in severe respiratory distress. When she is admitted, she tells the physician that she has not been using the inhaler for 4 weeks. Determination of Evelyn's educational preparation and certification is related to the concept of: a. accountability. b. authority. c. role performance. d. assignment.

ANS: B Authority refers to the right to do and may be designated by law, educational preparation, or job description.

9. A nurse executive who considers herself a Baby Boomer will have the challenge of convincing the emerging work force of the necessity of committee meetings. One of the primary reasons that the Baby Boom generation appears to have so many meetings in the work environment is that: a. they feel more comfortable in a group. b. they find that the journey to the solution is as important as the solution itself. c. they were deprived of collective action opportunities in the past and now feel that solutions are better when many people have input. d. Baby Boomers are aging and need the respite from work that meetings offer, so they can recuperate from the physical demands of the work environment.

ANS: B Baby Boomers mistrust authority and trust in collective action, based on successes with social movements in their formative years.

You are excited by evidence supporting the use of workstations on wheels (WOWs) at the bedside to improve documentation and patient outcomes. You have disseminated the information through discussions and e-mails and are now ready to begin the process of considering implementation on the unit. To develop positive attitudes toward the use and implementation of the technology, you would discuss your ideas with (Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory): a. Harvey, RN, a technology guru, who enthusiastically tries on all new software. b. Berta, RN, who thoughtfully considers evidence and regularly uses it to try new approaches in her practice. c. Carol, LPN, who is positive about new ideas but looks to her friends for their ideas about whether or not to try something new. d. Ben, a 10-year veteran of the unit, who wonders why technology should be used at all. He says that he will use it when there is no chance of security breaks.

ANS: B Berta is the one with whom you should now have informed conversations, because she is an early adopter who is respected for her thoughtful acquisition and critique of knowledge and application of knowledge to practice. Berta, an early adopter (Rogers' characteristics of innovation adopters), is more effective in this stage than Harvey, an innovator who may be seen as open to all new ideas regardless of merit.

Healthcare organization X is committed to improving patient outcomes and, as part of the QI process, examines its executive structure and organizational design. This approach recognizes: a. the importance of decentralized structure in QA. b. that structure influences nurse burnout and participation in quality improvement initiatives. c. the need to ensure sufficient supervisory staff to respond in a corrective manner when mistakes occur. d. that a narrow hierarchy ensures accountability for errors and outcomes.

ANS: B Common organizational characteristics of Magnet® hospitals include structure factors (e.g., decentralized organizational structure, participative management style, and influential nurse executives) and process factors (e.g., professional autonomy and decision making, ongoing professional development/education, active quality improvement initiatives). ANCC Magnet® designated hospitals and other high-reliability organizations in the United States and Europe generally have lower burnout rates, higher levels of job satisfaction, and provide higher levels of quality care resulting in greater levels of patient satisfaction.

As a nurse manager, you trial a new pain scale on your unit that is supported by numerous research studies. You compare the patient outcomes with the new scale against the existing scale. Feedback from staff suggests that the new scale is too difficult for patients who have limited language skills and who are already under duress to understand. The difficulty in implementing the new scale refers to testing: a. efficacy. b. effectiveness. c. practice failure. d. comparative error.

ANS: B Comparing the effectiveness of interventions can help to address the needs of clinicians in determining best practices for their patients. Comparative effectiveness research (CER) is the "generation and synthesis of evidence that compares the benefits and harms of alternative methods to prevent, diagnose, treat, and monitor a clinical condition or to improve the delivery of care" (Institute of Medicine, 2009, p. 29). Efficacy is testing an intervention or treatment in a traditional randomized clinical trial under carefully controlled conditions and is used to determine whether an intervention or treatment works, whereas effectiveness is testing whether the intervention or treatment works in the real world of practice.

8. During staff-development programs, staff nurses verbalize their frustration about their workloads and having to delegate so many tasks to others. One of the main reasons that delegation has emerged as an issue is because of: a. the amount of paperwork required to complete care. b. the complexity of care required by patients. c. earlier discharge practices. d. the numbers of other disciplines present on a given unit.

ANS: B Complexity of client care, a multilevel nursing model (registered nurses, mixed with LPNs/LVNs, and UNPs), and community-based care provide many challenges in determining the care required and outcomes desired and/or mandated, and in matching needs with various abilities and authority of regulated and unregulated healthcare providers. The nurse manager should ensure that staff is clinically competent and trained in their roles in patient safety.

Which of the following would be most effective in implementing the findings of a new clinical treatment for problems associated with bowel motility for the staff nurses? a. Lecture by a nurse practitioner b. Workshop for surgical nurses that involves discussion of case studies and application of evidence c. Discussion of the findings on the bulletin boards at the workstation d. Education of unit opinion leaders regarding the evidence presented in the studies

ANS: B Current research suggests that translation of research into practice is best facilitated through interactive learning such as workshops. Least effective strategies included didactic learning and distribution of learning materials.

10. An outpatient surgery manager is evaluating new infusion pumps for purchase to use in the operating room. The manager should: a. select the least expensive brand. b. use a decision-making tool to evaluate brands. c. ask the nursing staff which brand they prefer. d. select the vendor the institution usually buys from.

ANS: B Decision-making tools such as decision grids and SWOT analyses are most appropriate when information is available and options are known.

22. Functions such as "delegates tasks to assistive personnel" that are outlined in a position description for an RN Team Leader would be considered: a. active delegation. b. passive delegation. c. passive accountability. d. active responsibility.

ANS: B Delegation of functions that are normally considered part of or an essential part of the practice of a licensed person through a position description is considered passive delegation.

16. During a performance appraisal, Joanne, the nurse manager, indicates that Alysha has difficulty mentoring students on the unit. Alysha responds that this is not her responsibility. In responding to Alysha, Joanne needs to consider: a. Alysha's level of confidence. b. whether mentoring is included in the position description. c. whether mentoring is an essential component of the position description. d. whether mentoring can be accurately observed and measured.

ANS: B Employees must have clear role expectations, clearly understand what is expected of their performance, and understand the ramifications of not meeting those expectations. Position descriptions provide written guidelines detailing the roles and responsibilities of a specific position within the organizational context.

20. Which of the following strategies might be effective in empowering staff? a. Communication book in which new information on policies and processes is communicated and mistakes are highlighted. b. Monthly staff meetings during which a portion of the agenda is devoted to sharing ideas and presentations on best practices for implementation on the unit. c. Once-yearly summative evaluations based on what the manager best likes about the individual. d. Focus on discussion of errors in care with direction as to how errors are to be prevented in the future.

ANS: B Empowerment is a process that acknowledges the values and judgments of others and trusts their decisions. It allows freedom for making decisions while retaining accountability and provides an environment that is safe in which to explore.

21. The nurse manager plays a unique role in institutional management in that the nurse manager: a. encourages shared decision making. b. models professional nursing behavior. c. interprets healthcare trends and their impact on revenues. d. coordinates care and allocates resources.

ANS: B Encouragement of shared decision making, coordination of resources, and interface between internal and external factors and a unit are all associated with effective management but could be performed by a manager from any discipline. The nurse manager's unique role is modeling professional behavior.

11. With delegation, responsibility and accountability remain with the: a. physician. b. professional who delegates. c. individual who receives the delegation. d. individual who previously performed the task.

ANS: B Even though the delegatee (the one who receives the delegation) receives direction from the professional who delegates a task and must have the authority to complete it, the delegator retains accountability for the overall outcome and completion of the activity. The delegatee has responsibility (obligation to engage in the task) and authority for the task.

3. The nurse manager, as the leader of the unit's "customer (client) first" initiative, has asked the staff nurses to develop and administer a survey to every client before discharge. In asking the staff nurses to accomplish this task, the nurse manager is demonstrating: a. accountability. b. shared leadership. c. a common purpose. d. independence in the nursing manager's role.

ANS: B Healthy work environments are facilitated by involving staff and others in decision making; gaining access to information is one characteristic of shared decision making. Shared decision making enables staff to feel valued in policy development and in directing and leading.

A new RN staff member asks you about the difference between QA and QI. You explain the difference by giving an example of QI. a. "Last year, the management team established new outcomes that addressed issues such as medication errors." b. "At a staff meeting last year, two of our staff commented on the number of recent falls and asked, 'What can we do about it?'" c. "A process audit was done recently to determine how much time was being spent on patient documentation." d. "Errors are reported on our new computerized forms, and I follow up with staff to make sure that they understand the seriousness of their error."

ANS: B In QI, followers invest in the process by continually asking "What makes this indicator important to measure?" "What has been done to improve it?" "What can I do to improve it?"

20. A manager who is concerned with ensuring that patients on her surgical unit have the necessary information to make informed choices is: a. practicing legal nursing care. b. demonstrating respect for patient rights. c. avoiding risks. d. likely experiencing staff issues with informed consent.

ANS: B In demonstrating respect for and advocacy for informed consent, the nurse manager is reflecting a professional philosophy. Professional nurses are ethically and legally accountable to the standards of practice and the accompanying nursing actions delegated to others. Conveying high standards, holding others accountable, and shaping the future of nursing are inherent behaviors in the role of a manager.

2. John, a new graduate, reviews the employee evaluation for his new position. The first section requires that he list his own specific objectives to be accomplished. This is an example of: a. the traditional rating scale. b. learning goals, or management by objectives. c. a forced distribution scale. d. a behavior-anchored rating scale.

ANS: B In management by objectives, the employer and the employee jointly establish clear and measurable objectives for the next performance period.

16. The new head nurse on G Unit has been the subject of a great deal of discussion and complaining during breaks. She is a competent nurse of tremendous integrity with approximately 30 years' experience. Her predominant method of problem solving and communication is through meetings, which can go over the allotted time. The staff may: a. be represented by a high number of Baby Boomers. b. be presenting different generational values and attitudes than the head nurse. c. be unresponsive to her transactional leadership style. d. want a leader rather than a manager.

ANS: B Leaders who come out of the Baby Boomer generation may be more comfortable with collective action than followers who come out of the Emerging Work force generation, who are more comfortable with interactions if they are seen as having value for them and with activities if they are seen as having benefit. A group that is highly weighted toward the Emerging Work force generation may find the approach of a leader who is part of the Baby Boomer generation frustrating and may not understand the meaning or value of the meetings.

By following a shared leadership model, the nurse manager believes that staff members will learn to function synergistically. Some teams function synergistically because members: a. do not volunteer unwanted information. b. actively listen to each other. c. listen to the person who believes he or she is an expert. d. do not speak unless they are absolutely sure they are correct in their views.

ANS: B Active listening in a group creates synergy in that team members really hear one another's ideas and share in decision making.

The nurse educator of the pediatric unit determines that vital signs are frequently not being documented when children return from surgery. According to quality improvement (QI), to correct the problem, the educator, in consultation with the patient care manager, would initially do which of the following? a. Talk to the staff individually to determine why this is occurring. b. Call a meeting of all staff to discuss this issue. c. Have a group of staff nurses review the established standards of care for postoperative patients. d. Document which staff members are not recording vital signs and write them up.

ANS: B Leadership must identify safety shortcomings and must locate resources at patient care levels to identify and reduce risks. One method of doing this is to invite all staff into a discussion related to solutions to an identified concern. This approach encourages teamwork.

12. Budgeting and protection of revenues is a function of: a. leadership. b. management. c. team leadership. d. followers.

ANS: B Managers address complex issues such as planning, budgeting, and allocating resources, whereas leaders address change.

10. Nurses in the CCU are unhappy and frustrated with their nurse manager. They complain that "nothing is ever good enough for him." These statements suggest that the nurse manager's goals may be: a. measurable. b. unrealistic. c. attainable. d. too low.

ANS: B Nurse managers who are successful in motivating staff often provide an inclusive environment that facilitates clearly set, achievable goals that can result in both team and personal satisfaction.

The outcome statement "Patients will experience a ten percent reduction in urinary tract infections as a result of enhanced staff training related to catheterization and prompted voiding" is: a. physician-sensitive and nonmeasurable. b. measurable and nursing-sensitive. c. precise, measurable, and physician-sensitive. d. patient care-centered and nonmeasurable.

ANS: B Nursing-sensitive outcomes refer to outcomes that are affected by nursing activity and are precise, measurable, and patient-centered.

What is a strategy that can be used by a small community hospital with limited resources to develop an evidence-based nursing practice program? a. Hiring a nurse researcher b. Partnering with nurse researchers at a local university c. Subscribing to journals devoted to evidence-based nursing d. Including research competencies in managers' job descriptions

ANS: B Partnering with nurse researchers assists in providing nurse researcher expertise and leadership to organizations that do not have the size or the resources to hire nurse researchers.

Volunteers in a study are assigned randomly to groups. Some of the volunteers receive an herbal supplement that is reputed to control nausea, and some of the volunteers are assigned to a control group where a placebo is administered. This is an example of a(n): a. longitudinal study. b. RCT. c. meta-analysis. d. appraisal tool.

ANS: B RCTs, or randomized controlled trials, always involve testing of a treatment through the random assignment of subjects in the study to an experimental or treatment group or to a control group that receives a placebo.

22. Joanne, a new nurse manager, writes certain assumptions regarding the organization's objectives into her budget. Her supervisor tells her that the objectives implied in her assumptions are not entirely consistent with the organization, and that she needs to clarify these objectives with her supervisor. Joanne apologizes and says she had more latitude with the budget where she previously worked. This is an example of: a. role complexity. b. role ambiguity. c. role conflict. d. time-dependent roles.

ANS: B Role ambiguity in the workplace creates an environment for misunderstanding and hinders effective communication. Without clear expectations of performance, missteps in performance can occur.

21. The chief nursing officer establishes a shared governance model to help empower the nursing staff, thus empowering the organization. Common characteristics of empowered organizations are: a. shared values, high salaries, and a human focus. b. shared values, flexibility, and a human-capital focus. c. commitment to communication, high salaries, and flexibility for evaluations. d. creation of community and of effective stress management in the midst of divergent goals.

ANS: B Shared governance involves valuing the contributions of each member of the team, releasing the need to control, and understanding that accountability rests with members of the team.

A strategic goal for nursing in the facility developed by the chief nursing officer is to implement an evidence-based practice program. What is an appropriate strategy that can be used by a nurse manager who is beginning to implement an evidence-based practice program on the unit? a. Conducting a review of adverse events and incident reports b. Soliciting input from staff members c. Reviewing specialty organization guidelines d. Identifying patients with extended lengths of stay

ANS: B Stakeholders need to be involved early, and staff members need to be involved when initiatives involve direct patient care. Involvement assists in understanding issues and concerns, motivations, and unmet needs.

Before beginning a continuous quality improvement project, a nurse should determine the minimal safety level of care by referring to the: a. procedure manual. b. nursing care standards. c. litigation rate of unsafe practice. d. job descriptions of the organization.

ANS: B Standards establish the minimal safety level of care. Procedure manuals provide information about how standards are to be achieved.

Tara, the unit manager, is explain to her colleague her recent project, which involves seeking the most effective approaches to incontinence care, with the intention of adopting evidence-supported approaches on her dementia care unit. Her colleague suggests that translation of research into practice is: a. less important than knowledge-generating research, which is required to advance the nursing profession. b. a priority of all healthcare practitioners to improve patient care. c. characterized by lack of knowledge about how to use evidence to guide practice. d. so difficult that it is useless to begin the query in the first place.

ANS: B The National Institutes of Health identified translational research or getting research into the hands of practitioners to improve patient care, as a priority.

Assessment of the needs of the consumer or client (in developing a strategic marketing plan) focuses on: a. present needs only. b. present and future needs. c. the development of surveys. d. secondary analysis of existing data.

ANS: B Assessment of needs takes into account needs of the consumer now and for the future, using a variety of data-gathering techniques. Future orientation aids in anticipating how marketing and programs will need to shift to meet those needs.

The clinical guidelines for management of incontinence developed by the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO): a. reflect practice that is fiscally directed and sound. b. articulate practice recommendations developed from synthesis and review of evidence. c. are intended to increase awareness of issues in incontinence management. d. reflect a compilation of information from a variety and range of sources related to incontinence.

ANS: B The evidence-based practice (EBP) movement has grown exponentially with scientific publications, establishment of collaboration centers, resources on the Web, and grants focused specifically on translating of research into practice. A number of evidence-based nursing centers have been established around the world. These centers have teams of researchers who critically appraise evidence and then disseminate protocols for the use of evidence in practice. In this example, clinical guidelines have been developed by a professional nursing organization on the basis of best possible evidence on incontinence management. Although issues may be raised in the recommendations, the purpose is to guide practice for the purposes of better patient care.

16. Decision making is described by the nursing educator as the process one uses to: a. solve a problem. b. choose between alternatives. c. reflect on a certain situation. d. generate ideas.

ANS: B The hallmark of decision making is choosing among options. Generating options is one phase of decision making, and solving a problem refers to problem solving, which is problem centered. Decision making does not always begin with problems, but rather is defined as a purposeful, goal-directed effort that uses a systematic process to choose among options.

7. The hospital administrator approves a case management position for a new rehabilitation unit to help reduce costs. In developing the job description, the nurse manager understands that a key element of case management is: a. managing of care by nurse managers. b. coordination of resources for effective outcomes. c. rapid discharge of clients to decrease costs. d. managing of care for outpatient clients only.

ANS: B The key to effective case management is proactive coordination of care from the point of admission to accomplish appropriate and effective outcomes. Case management involves components such as case selection, multidisciplinary assessment, collective planning, coordination of events, negotiation, and evaluation and documentation of the outcomes of patient status in measures of cost. Case management is employed in a variety of settings.

18. You ask Evelyn, a new UNP, to check what is left in Mrs. N.'s inhaler when Evelyn makes visits to Mrs. N. and also to check whether Mrs. N. is receiving any positive effect from the medication. Evelyn reports for 3 weeks that Mrs. N. is using the inhaler and that there is enough medication left in the device. The day of her last visit to Mrs. N., Mrs. N. is admitted to the hospital in severe respiratory distress. When she is admitted, she tells the physician that she has not been using the inhaler for 4 weeks. This incident is an example of: a. incompetence of the UNP. b. failure to follow-through. c. skills but no motivation. d. lack of accountability.

ANS: B The nurse should maintain open lines of communication and seek information, and the UNP should know how, when, and what to report. Communication of delegation of tasks includes specific information about what is being delegated, expected outcomes, and deviations (which includes what immediate action needs to be taken). This 2-way communication and follow-through allows patient care to be altered, if necessary, in a timely manner.

13. The Sunny long-term care facility has experienced numerous difficulties with staff relationships, despite its success in maintaining financial viability and judicious use of resources. Staff members complain that the primary concerns of the facility include applying policy, saving money, and ensuring that lawsuits are avoided. There is little trust in, and involvement of, staff members. This facility may be: a. well managed and well led. b. overly managed and not well led. c. poorly managed and well led. d. overly led and overly managed.

ANS: B This organization is concerned primarily with coordination of resources, application of current policy, and economic issues connected to the present. These behaviors are consistent with the management role. There is little evidence that the organization displays leadership, which involves trust, belief, hope, and vision.

15. Which of the following nurses is MOST likely to inspire others to do their best? a. Nancy, RN, is an individual who enjoys details and organization. She regularly leaves notes for the next shift about what has been done incorrectly or omitted. b. Jim, RN, has been involved in nursing for several years and is well liked by patients and families. He continually searches for new knowledge and skills, and his sense of humor and optimism are infectious. c. Clara has been the head nurse on Unit 3Y for years. She is quiet but enjoys patients and their families. She has not been to a conference in years because the unit is her entire life. d. Karen is a team leader. She is extraordinarily vigilant about ensuring that everyone is treated fairly in assignments. She is also very conscientious about care and regularly checks up on what everyone is doing to ensure that it is done correctly.

ANS: B To be inspired, people must have a positive leader who radiates energy, a zest for learning, and an interest in the common good, and is engaged in self-renewal. This leader is hopeful and optimistic. Leaders, not managers, inspire others to work to their highest level.

18. John's performance was satisfactory during the first month, but after that time, he was found to be very inconsistent in the provision of nursing care. One month before the end of the rating period, he cared for a very wealthy and influential client, who is best friends with the clinical manager. This client donated new furniture for the staff lounge in John's name to show appreciation for his care. John's subsequent performance appraisal resulted in outstanding ratings in all areas. This is an example of: a. a performance rating based on justifiable evidence. b. a bias related to recent events. c. the impact of personality on the appraisal of performance. d. the effective use of a behaviorally anchored rating scale.

ANS: B To gain and to provide an accurate evaluation of performance over time, anecdotal notes need to be maintained throughout the evaluation period. This process assists in avoiding bias related to recent or sensational events that make a particularly strong impression.

18. Kari, a head nurse on the dialysis unit, has been informed during budget planning meetings that budget cuts are likely. She discusses this at the next unit meeting and tells staff members that unless they do their jobs well, their positions may be terminated, and there will be no replacement. Kari is enacting which management style? a. Transformational b. Transactional c. Trusting d. Truthful

ANS: B Transactional leaders tend to rely on position and power, and they tend to reward and punish according to performance and conformity with expectations.

6. The nurse manager in the Emergency Department needs to implement new staffing patterns. As a transformational leader, the nurse manager would: a. explain in detail how well the new idea will work. b. reinforce how this change will respond to the ideas and solutions generated by staff members. c. reason with staff members that the new idea will save money and allow more free time. d. imply that raises will be smaller than anticipated if the new idea is not accepted.

ANS: B Transformational leadership inspires and motivates others through influence and persuasion rather than through rewards (e.g., free time) and punishment (e.g., smaller raises). This type of leader listens to the views of others (such as those of the staff members), empowers others to lead (such as in generating solutions for staffing problems), finds ways to remove barriers, and serves as an advocate for those who care for patients.

20. John Smith, one of three managers at BSG Labs, drafted a policy that would allow his department to do more testing in his lab. This policy included the times for regular collection as well as a new process for emergency laboratory testing. The policy and procedures were never followed. The reason was that: a. the policy was too lengthy and inundated readers with too much detail. b. the policy made decisions for other departments in the company. c. the staff did not believe that the new policy would be effective. d. testing should not be done in the lab.

ANS: B Two primary criteria make for effective decisions. First, the decision must be of a high quality; that is, it achieves the predefined goals, objectives, and outcomes. Second, those who are responsible for its implementation must accept the decision. Higher quality decisions are more likely to result if groups are involved in the decision-making and problem-solving process. Taking ownership of the process and outcome provides a smoother transition in changes.

6. During a fire drill, the nurse manager becomes very assertive and directive in her communications with staff. This type of situational leadership depends on: a. supportive behavior by the leader and immature followers. b. the development level of the followers and the behavior based on the situation. c. well-developed followers combined with a strong leader who acts quickly. d. the leader's ability to evaluate personnel and communicate that evaluation.

ANS: B When abilities, relationships, and/or time is limited (as in a crisis situation), the leader assumes a bigger role in guiding and in making decisions, or "telling" behavior. Leaders need to behavior differently and use different leadership styles in different situations.

19. You ask Evelyn, a new UNP, to check what is left in Mrs. N.'s inhaler when Evelyn makesvisits to Mrs. N. and also to check whether Mrs. N. is receiving any positive effect from the medication. Evelyn reports for 3 weeks that Mrs. N. is using the inhaler and that there is enough medication left in the device. The day of her last visit to Mrs. N., Mrs. N. is admitted to the hospital in severe respiratory distress. When she is admitted, she tells the physician that she has not been using the inhaler for 4 weeks. Before assigning Evelyn to Mrs. N.'s care, the most appropriate action of the care coordinator would have been to: a. determine Evelyn's educational background and preparation for this role. b. ask Evelyn if she has worked with inhalers before and to describe what she knows about them. c. advise that if Evelyn has any questions about what to do with the inhaler, she should come to the coordinator. d. advise Evelyn that working the inhaler is not really complicated and that she should ask the patient how to check medication levels in the inhaler.

ANS: B When delegating tasks, in addition to specifying the task to be completed, outcomes, priorities, time lines, deviations, report time frames, monitoring, and resources, asking the delegatee to give examples of each is helpful in ensuring that communication is clear and has been understood. Preparation of UNPs lacks consistency; therefore, the safest practice is to determine the knowledge and skill level of the UNP in relation to the skill and the patient before delegating.

13. Which of the following indicates safe delegation? a. The nurse supervisor for a large urban acute care department asks the unit manager to accept two new acutely ill patients, which the manager does. The unit is short two staff, and the replacement is inexperienced. b. A unit manager agrees to release a staff from her unit to Unit B. The staff member she agrees to release is experienced on Unit B and is agreeable to the change. The unit manager's unit is fully staffed and patients are stable. c. The nurse supervisor asks the head nurse for Unit A to make do without a replacement for an ill staff member because Unit A was originally overstaffed anyway. Patient acuity levels are very high on Unit A and two staff are orientating. d. The nurse supervisor asks the charge nurse on Unit B to cover Unit F, which is two floors up, because the charge nurse for Unit F is ill. The charge nurse for Unit B is an experienced manager but has no experience with the nursing care required on Unit F.

ANS: B When span of control (number of individuals for whom a manager is responsible) is compromised by geographic factors such as lack of proximity, instability in patients' conditions, or lack of experience, the span of control that is being delegated may lead to unsafe care.

20. The style of leadership that Kari is exhibiting is likely to: a. ensure that the organization is financially stable. b. stifle innovative thinking about ways to move out of financial jeopardy. c. lead to apathy and disinterest in the organizational goals. d. lead to decreased attrition of staff on her unit.

ANS: B Whether or not the organization achieves financial stability is a function of financial envisioning and planning, but the style of leadership (transactional) that Kari is demonstrating is likely maintaining the status quo within the organization, without generating creative and innovative ideas to address the financial issues. Staff commitment is low to stable, and conformity to organizational goals is motivated by external rewards.

In assessing the internal environment, the strategic planning team at Pacific Hospital discovers that 90% of staff members have no idea what the current mission statement means. This is most likely related to: a. the level of abstraction inherent in mission statements. b. development of the statement by the administration team with no other staff involvement. c. outdated goals and objectives contained in the mission statement. d. failure to provide action statements within the mission statement.

ANS: B A mission statement reflects the beliefs of the organization in relation to those it serves and services it provides, and it communicates the direction of an organization. Covey (1990) believes that the process of developing the mission statement is vital to an organization's success and should involve everyone.

You are charged with developing a new nursing curriculum and are committed to developing a curriculum that reflects the needs of the profession and of the workplace. To address deficits that may already be present in nursing curricula related to the workplace, you include more content and skills development related to: a. therapeutic communication with patients. b. effective communication in the workplace. c. increased emphasis on sender-receiver dyads. d. generational differences in communication.

ANS: B Nursing programs teach therapeutic communications with patients and their families. Little focus, however, is placed on effective communication in the workplace, although communication is essential to building and maintaining smoothly functioning teams.

Shifts such as changes in the percentage of seniors in the population, governmental initiatives in health care, and the influence of income on health status are factors in the __________ environment. a. public b. macro c. competitive d. social

ANS: B The external environment in strategic marketing planning includes the public, competitive, and macro environments. Demographic, social, and political factors are included in the macro environments.

The mediator suggested to the unit staff that a group agreement needed to be made so meetings could become productive. For example, the group agreement, "We will speak supportively," prevents: a. expression of opposing ideas. b. gossip and making negative comments about absent team members. c. efforts to ensure that everyone thinks alike. d. votes that oppose motions.

ANS: B This is an example of a rule that a team can implement to prevent certain negative behaviors such as gossip, backbiting, and bickering that undermine the productivity and functioning of a group.

As a nursing leadership student, you have had the opportunity to develop a palliative care manual that will be utilized by the palliative care network (PCN) in your region for teaching healthcare professionals. The PCN has requested that you provide a prioritized plan of action for marketing the manual on a regional and state basis. What is the first priority? a. Motivate the target market. b. Research the target market. c. Communicate benefits to the target group. d. Package the product.

ANS: B To put a strategic plan into place for marketing, it is necessary to conduct an external assessment.

A nurse is applying for a new position. This position is one in which she will serve as a liaison between a hospital and a school of nursing. The nurse must update her résumé to include her teaching experience. The goal of creating a curriculum vitae is to: a. have a listing of facts about your professional life. b. provide potential employers with information about where you are in your career. c. respond quickly whenever a position becomes available. d. be certain you can recall facts for a prospective position.

ANS: B A curriculum vitae provides an all-inclusive but not detailed listing of your professional life. This approach allows a prospective employer to find the most recent information quickly and gain a sense of where you are in your career.

To develop a curriculum vitae, or résumé, a nurse must develop a personal data file. The goal of a personal data file is to: a. create an opportunity to be interviewed. b. have a listing of facts about your professional life. c. have a tool in place for marketing yourself. d. create a document that lists your skills.

ANS: B A personal data file enables storage and recall of career-specific details that can be retrieved and shaped for a specific purpose using cut-and-paste approaches rather than creating whole new documents.

To enhance team leadership skills for your team leaders, you arrange opportunities for: a. certification. b. continuing education. c. graduate courses. d. volunteerism.

ANS: B Continuing education provides systematic learning opportunities that augment existing skills and knowledge for delivery of quality care and advancement of career goals. Graduate and certification courses provide advanced knowledge and skills.

A young male nurse began in nursing as a staff nurse at a hospital. After 3 years, he moved to a home healthcare agency for increase in pay and taking a position as a manager in the agency. What type of motivation does this exemplify in career success? a. Internal b. External c. Spiral d. Entrepreneurial

ANS: B This type of career success is exemplified by external focus or motivation. The motivation in external focus is from tangible measures such as salary and promotions.

A nurse manager wants to decrease the number of medication errors that occur in her department. The manager arranges a meeting with the staff to discuss the issue. The manager conveys a total quality management philosophy by: a. explaining to the staff that disciplinary action will be taken in cases of additional errors. b. recommending that a multidisciplinary team should assess the root cause of errors in medication. c. suggesting that the pharmacy department should explore its role in the problem. d. changing the unit policy to allow a certain number of medication errors per year without penalty.

ANS: B recommending that a multidisciplinary team should assess the root cause of errors Quality management stresses improving the system, and the detection of staff errors is not stressed. If errors occur, reeducation of staff is emphasized rather than imposition of punitive measures such as disciplinary action or blaming.

1. As a senior executive, you are keen to develop your hospital as a learning organization. Part of your purpose in translating this vision into practice is to: (Select all that apply.) a. retain funding from third-party payers. b. develop leaders. c. maintain and/or improve quality of care. d. stay abreast of new knowledge and evidence.

ANS: B, C, D Learning organizations are concerned with providing opportunities and incentives for individuals and groups to engage in lifelong learning, in recognition of the positive impact that learning has on patient outcomes and staying abreast of new knowledge. Lifelong learning and reflection are also characteristics of leaders.

At an organizational level, which of the following strategies would assist in ensuring that EBP is incorporated into nursing care? a. Formation of nursing-only implementation teams b. Restriction of evidence to RCTs c. Formation of a network of individuals doing research and/or interested in research utilization d. Avoidance of partnership with experienced researchers

ANS: C Collaboration, partnerships, and consideration of a variety of evidence appropriate to the clinical questions are important in ensuring translation of evidence into practice. Collaboration is considered particularly critical and can occur through practice-based networks.

An older adult couple with limited means and on Medicare is considering options after the hospitalization of Mrs. A. with a fractured hip. Mrs. A. is stable but requires assistance with bathing, transfer, and mobility, and this will present stress for Mr. A., who was hospitalized with a mild myocardial infarction last year. Considering their means and health concerns, which of the following might be the best option? a. Hospice care b. Custodial nursing home care c. Home care d. Hospital care

ANS: C Rationale: Custodial nursing care is not covered under Medicare and therefore, the financial burden of this option may cause further stress for the couple. Medicare Part A is an insurance plan for hospital, hospice, home health, and skilled nursing care that is paid for through Social Security. Because Mrs. A. is stable and not terminal, she does not require hospice care. The assistance provided through home care is covered under Medicare and provides assistance for needs such as those of Mrs. A.

In preparing her budget, a nurse manager determines that she needs to budget for six FTE RN positions in the upcoming year. Based on a 40-hour week, this means that the nurse manager has determined that the budget will provide for _____ hours. a. 12,480 productive b. 10,820 productive c. 12,480 paid d. 10,800 patient care

ANS: C Rationale: From the information given, it is not possible to determine how many non-productive hrs (vacation, holiday, sick time, education) the nurse manager has accounted for in her budget calculations and therefore whether the total number of hours (40 hours x 52 weeks x 6 staff = 12,480 paid hrs) is productive (paid time that is worked) or non-productive hrs. 12,480 accurately reflects the total number of hrs of work paid per year.

In preparing her budget, a nurse manager determines that she needs to budget for six FTE RN positions in the upcoming year. The nurse manager determines that RN 1 has 5 weeks of vacation and 3 days of education and has averaged 3 sick days a year. RN 2 has 6 weeks of vacation, has asked to attend a 3-day conference and a 2-day workshop, and has no history of sick time. RN 3 is new, and you anticipate 3 weeks of orientation, as well as 4 weeks of vacation. RN 4 has 6 weeks of vacation and has an ongoing health condition, so you anticipate 2 weeks of sick time, as well as 3 days for education. RN 5 has 5 weeks of vacation, has no education planned, and averages 5 sick days per year. RN 6 has 6 weeks of vacation, has no educational opportunities planned, and has been off ill for 4 weeks. How many hours of productive paid time can be anticipated for the budget? a. 12,480 b. 11,200 c. 10,848 d. 10,688

ANS: C Rationale: From the information given, there are 32 weeks of vacation (40 hrs x 32 weeks = 1280 hrs), 11 days of education (11 days 8 hrs = 88 hrs), 15 days of orientation (15 days x 8 hrs = 120 hrs), and 18 days of sick time anticipated (18 days x 8 hrs = 144) or 1280 + 88 + 120 + 144 = 1632 hrs of non-productive time. This will leave 10,848 hrs of productive time available, based on the information available and the fact that the manager is not anticipating sick time for RN 6 in the upcoming budget year.

In preparing a budget, the nurse manager needs to anticipate the cost of benefits (e.g., health, life insurance, pension, and retirement plans). Based on the usual cost of benefits, how much should a nurse manager include for a total full-time salary cost of $312,000? a. $78,000 to $93,600 b. $62,400 to $78,000 c. $46,800 to −$93,600 d. $31,200 to $46,800

ANS: C Rationale: The average cost of benefits is approximately 25% to 30% of a full-time employee's salary. In this example, the correct response is obtained by multiplying the total full-time salary cost by 0.25 and 0.30.

A nurse manager approves two staff nurses to attend a national conference. When reviewing the budget, the nurse manager looks at which line item? a. Cash budget b. Capital budget c. Operating budget d. Supply and expense budget

ANS: C Rationale: The operating budget includes a personnel budget, which takes into account productive and non-productive paid work hours. Education hours are covered under nonproductive paid work hours in the operating budget.

A nurse manager discovers that the actual number of visits per patient in a home health service is 3.8 visits per day when the standard is 5 visits per day. Based on this information, the nurse manager: a. concludes that the complexity of care in each visit has arisen. b. concludes that patient volume has been decreased. c. decides that more information is needed before a conclusion can be reached. d. initiates a training session regarding the importance of ensuring that visits are made.

ANS: C Rationale: Variance from measures of productivity or ratio of outputs to inputs does not necessarily offer an explanation of whether or not care was delivered as needed. Before proceeding to any further conclusion, the nurse manager will need to investigate reasons for the decreased output.

6. Which of the following might best conclude an interview? a. "Thank you for your interest. Someone will be in touch with you soon." b. "Before you go, we will make sure that we have your contact information. Thank you for coming." c. "I will be in contact with all candidates by telephone by next Friday. It has been a pleasure to meet you." d. "We have several excellent candidates so I am not sure about the outcome of the interview, but I will let you know. Thank you for coming."

ANS: C An employment interview should always conclude with information as to how and when follow-up to the interview will occur.

Your institution has identified a recent rise in postsurgical infection rates. As part of your QI analysis, you are interested in determining how your infection rates compare with those of institutions of equivalent size and patient demographics. This is known as: a. quality assurance. b. sentinel data. c. benchmarking. d. statistical analysis.

ANS: C Benchmarking is a widespread search to identify the best performance against which to measure practices and processes.

3. Several nurses on an adolescent psychiatric unit complain that the teens are becoming unmanageable on the 0700-1900 shift. To resolve this problem, the nurse manager decides that the staff should have a brainstorming session. The goal of brainstorming is to: a. evaluate problem solutions. b. critique the ideas of others. c. generate as many solutions as possible. d. identify only practical and realistic ideas.

ANS: C Brainstorming encourages creativity when one is beginning to problem-solve and avoids premature shutting down of ideas through early evaluation. The goal is to generate ideas, no matter how seemingly unrealistic or absurd.

County Hospital has position descriptions for all staff, including RN Team Leaders. Sarah, a team leader on the rehab unit, assesses the needs of the patients in her area, assesses the skills and backgrounds of each of the individuals on her team, and then assigns and delegates the appropriate care provider to each patient and task. Sarah provides Colleen, her RN colleague with details regarding the patients to whom Colleen has been assigned on the day shift. This is an example of:

Assignment.

10. The hospital administration is discussing the possibility of closing hospital beds in your unit because of a nursing shortage and the increased amount of overtime required to care for patients. As the leader on the unit, which of the following examples best demonstrates your transformational leadership style? a. Your entire staff walks out on strike. b. Your staff sends an ultimatum to the clinic director demanding higher pay. c. A group of your staff members goes to the administration to propose closing of a different unit. d. A group of your staff members goes to the administration to request that they be allowed to work the overtime hours.

ANS: C Commitment to the vision that has been created is seen in the ability of the leader to influence, motivate, and persuade others. The transformational leader can motivate employees by encouragement of novel, innovative thinking. True transformational leadership as occurring when the leader is able to motivate followers to create new ways to problem solve and manage the changes together.

Patient perceptions are useful in: a. determining disciplinary actions in QI. b. establishing the competitive advantage of QI decisions. c. providing one source of data for QI initiatives. d. establishing blame for poor-quality care.

ANS: C Customers define quality and patient dissatisfaction as useful indicators of which areas are of greatest concern to patients and of what matters then to nurses and organizations. Patient perceptions guide areas of inquiry; however, they do not establish what disciplinary decisions will be made.

24. In working with Cheryl, her mentor suggests that it is really important for Cheryl to engage in self-appraisal and to know her strengths. This observation is based on an understanding that: a. self-confidence comes automatically out of leading. b. self-confidence requires constant self-affirmation of strengths. c. there is little external motivation and affirmation in leadership. d. supervisors of leaders rarely provide feedback.

ANS: C Followers usually hold opinions about decisions that are made; these opinions can be favorable or not, which means that external motivation and affirmation are rare. Leaders have to be confident in their own abilities and enthused about the vision that they have created.

16. An RN colleague, who is a long-standing and collaborative member of your team, is performing a complex dressing with new orders written for the first time for the assigned patient. Which of the following would be the most appropriate communication with her? a. "How do you usually do this kind of dressing?" b. "The dressing needs to be done today and tomorrow with the supplies on this cart." c. "Here is what you need for the dressing, and I will show you what needs to be done." d. "I know you know what you are doing. Let me know if you have any problems."

ANS: C If a situation involves a new task and the relationship is ongoing (two individuals who will usually continue to work together), the delegator explains what to do and how to do it. Hersey described the leader's behavior as explaining or persuading, which, is characterized as "selling." The RN who is assigned to the patient is an experienced nurse and team member, but is new to this specific situation. In situations where the nurse is experienced but the task is new, explain (and demonstrate) what needs to be done.

7. The unit manager is working in a large metropolitan facility and is told that two UNPs are to be assigned to work with her. Delegation begins with: a. acknowledging the arrival of the second UNP on the unit. b. providing clear directions to both UNPs. c. matching tasks with qualified persons. d. receiving reports from the prior shift.

ANS: C In delegating to the UNPs, the nurse must consider what cannot be delegated, as well as the factors of safety, time, critical thinking, and stability of patients.

The nurse manager is concerned about the negative ratings her unit has received on patient satisfaction surveys. The first step in addressing this issue from the point of view of quality improvement is to: a. assemble a team. b. establish a benchmark. c. identify a clinical activity for review. d. establish outcomes.

ANS: C In theory, all aspects of clinical activity could be improved through the QI process. However, QI efforts should be concentrated on changes to patient care that will have the greatest effect.

15. From the information supplied in this chapter, which statement best defines critical thinking? Critical thinking is a: a. high-level cognitive process. b. process that helps to develop reflective criticism for the purpose of reaching a conclusion. c. high-level cognitive process that includes creativity, problem solving, and decision making. d. discussion that guides the nursing process.

ANS: C It is generally accepted by many authors and researchers that this statement best defines critical thinking.

To help staff nurses adjust to using research in practice, what strategy would the nurse manager use? a. Attendance at a regional research conference b. Formal classes in electronic search techniques c. Establishing a journal club d. Issuing reports on the adverse consequences of outdated practices

ANS: C Journal clubs provide opportunities for engagement in reading research and considering how it might be applied to clinical practice problems, which is considered very effective in behavioral change.

7. To retain supervisory staff members, the director of nursing develops a mentoring program. The best person to be a mentor for a new supervisor in a leadership position is someone who has: a. been in the same position and can relate to the new supervisor's problems. b. had vast leadership opportunities and likes to talk about his or her past experiences. c. leadership experience and time to spend communicating with the new supervisor about his or her experiences. d. people who can help the new supervisor get what he or she needs to make the organization grow quickly and prosper in the process.

ANS: C Mentors need to have experience and some success in the leadership area of interest, as well as interest in the future development of the novice. The mentor can be geographically distant or close and able to provide advice and feedback.

8. In planning a new wing, the nurse manager complies with the workplace safety requirements of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). Which of the following groups is considered to be at high risk for violence in the workplace? a. Pediatric staff b. Postsurgical unit staff c. Emergency Department staff d. Medical oncology unit staff

ANS: C Nurse managers have responsibility for both patient and staff safety. High-risk areas, such as the Emergency Department, require special attention.

Ali, an RN on your unit, is consistently late to work and makes remarks such as "Do you really want me to do that?" when patients and care are assigned to her. You have spoken with her frequently about her:

Attitude.

17. Justin is a nurse manager in a rehabilitation unit in a small urban center. There is a high turnover rate among rehab-assistants because of the heavy work assignments. Despite his need for staff, Justin decides to review each application thoroughly and interview candidates carefully because he recognizes that it is important to hire staff who can best provide high-quality care and who will fit well with the team. Which of the following decision-making models did Justin use in making his decision? a. Subjective model b. Objective model c. Optimizing model d. Satisficing model

ANS: C Optimizing is a decision style in which the decision maker selects the option that is best, based on an analysis of the pros and cons associated with each option. A better decision is more likely when using this approach, although it takes longer to arrive at a decision.

11. Select the statement that best defines the difference between problem solving and decision making: a. decision-making skills require critical thinking; problem-solving skills do not. b. problem-solving skills require critical thinking; decision-making skills do not. c. decision making is a goal-directed effort; problem solving is focused on solving an immediate problem. d. problem solving is a goal-directed effort; decision making is focused on solving an immediate problem.

ANS: C Problem solving is focused on solving immediate problems, whereas decision making is a goal-directed process that is aimed at selecting appropriate actions from among options. Not all decisions begin with a problem.

12. Which of the following exemplifies accountability? Karen, the nurse manager on 5E: a. consistently submits her budgets on time. b. gets along well with her staff and with other managers. c. outlines her rationale for reduction of RN coverage on nights to the Nursing Practice Committee after serious patient injury. d. actively solicits ideas regarding scheduling from her staff.

ANS: C Reliability, dependability, and obligation to fulfill the roles and responsibilities of the nurse manager are consistent with responsibility. Accountability refers to being answerable for actions and results.

21. High-quality decisions are most likely to be made in nursing situations when: a. team leaders make the crucial decisions. b. individuals are advised of the problems. c. group size is neither too small nor too large. d. members are passively involved.

ANS: C Research has shown that group size is important. Too small a group means a limited number of options generated. Too large a group can mean lack of structure or lack of meaningful discussion.

2. A nurse manager has worked to bring the staff to participate in and then accept changes in the unit's mission, so that downsizing can be avoided. How is the nurse manager using change theory for this situation? a. Focusing on past concerns related to the mission b. Teaching staff members how to self-manage themselves c. Determining accurately the direction of change in the institution d. Requiring all staff members to review and reinforce their technological skills

ANS: C The manager is using change theory to have the staff develop and therefore buy into the changes. Determining the direction of change for the institution allows the manager to work using change theory to guide staff for changes.

7. In determining the fit of a candidate with the culture on your unit, which of the following interview questions might be asked? a. "Could you review your résumé for us, highlighting your certifications and experience?" b. "If we were to ask your references, what would they list as your strengths? Weaknesses?" c. "We have a number of older adult patients on this unit. If you noticed another staff member addressing one of these patients impatiently, how would you respond?" d. "Tell us about your work and academic experiences and qualifications."

ANS: C The nurse manager wants the most qualified individual for the position who also fits the culture of the organization. Asking behavioral questions in the interview allows you to assess how a candidate may function in real-life situations and to assess if this behavior is compatible with the culture on the unit.

A nurse is explaining the pediatric unit's quality improvement (QI) program to a newly employed nurse. Which of the following would the nurse include as the primary purpose of QI programs? a. Evaluation of staff members' performances b. Determination of the appropriateness of standards c. Improvement in patient outcomes d. Preparation for accreditation of the organization by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)

ANS: C The primary purpose of QI is improvement of patient outcomes, which relates to prevention of error, quality patient care, and patient satisfaction.

After searching the literature, Tara, the unit manager develops a table that outlines the findings of studies on management of incontinence. She then examines the studies in terms of risk and whether the findings fit within her practice context and for her population of moderately to severely cognitively impaired patients. This is which phase of a research utilization model? a. Preparatory b. Validation c. Evaluation d. Application

ANS: C The third phase, comparative evaluation and decision making, involves making a decision about the applicability of the studies by synthesizing cumulative findings; evaluating the degree and nature of other criteria, such as risk, feasibility, and readiness of the finding; and making a recommendation about using the findings of the studies.

2. The charge nurse is making patient assignments for the next shift on the unit. There is one critical patient on the unit, who is going to require more care than the other patients. Before delegating this patient in an assignment, what is the appropriate action by the charge nurse? a. Delegate the admission assessment to the LPN. b. Review the employee's performance assessment for the most recent period. c. Assess the amount of guidance and support needed for the nursing care of the patient. d. Create a task analysis of critical behaviors for the individual.

ANS: C To delegate effectively, the charge nurse must assess the abilities required in the situation and the abilities that staff have to anticipate the amount of direction, monitoring, explanation, and independence that can be assumed.

6. To solve a problem, the nurse manager understands that the most important problem-solving step is: a. the implementation phase. b. identification of numerous solutions. c. accurate identification of the problem. d. evaluation of the effectiveness of problem resolution.

ANS: C To proceed effectively, it is important to determine if a problem exists and to accurately identify a problem. Failure to resolve problems is most often linked to improper identification of the problem.

1. As the clinical director of 24 employees, you have been asked to explain to staff members why they are not getting a raise this year, even though they have been working short-handed for many months and patient satisfaction scores have never been higher. Because you believe yourself to be a transformational leader, you will approach this problem by: a. telling the assistant clinical director and asking her to share the bad news with the other staff members. b. posting a note on the bulletin board that includes the phone number of the chief nursing officer, so anyone who has complaints may express them. c. showing staff members the budget and asking for input about how to cut costs so that raises will be possible in the future. d. meeting with a small group of seasoned staff members and asking them how to break the news.

ANS: C Transformational leadership involves engaging those being led and inspiring shared vision in moving toward a goal that all will accept as desirable. This involves enabling and empowering others to believe that their input and effort will make a difference in solving problems.

21. County Hospital has position descriptions for all staff, including RN Team Leaders. Sarah, a team leader on the rehab unit, assesses the needs of the patients in her area, assesses the skills and backgrounds of each of the individuals on her team, and then assigns and delegates the appropriate care provider to each patient and task. Sarah's activity in the example described is termed: a. passive delegation. b. passive accountability. c. active delegation. d. active responsibility.

ANS: C When a position description contains functions that are considered to be the normal practice of the person in that role, then it is considered a passive delegation act. When Sarah decides what is best for the patients in her care in terms of who should perform the care and then holds the person accountable, she is engaging in active delegation.

23. County Hospital has position descriptions for all staff, including RN Team Leaders. Sarah, a team leader on the rehab unit, assesses the needs of the patients in her area, assesses the skills and backgrounds of each of the individuals on her team, and then assigns and delegates the appropriate care provider to each patient and task. Sarah provides Colleen, her RN colleague with details regarding the patients to whom Colleen has been assigned on the day shift. This is an example of: a. accountability. b. responsibility. c. assignment. d. delegation.

ANS: C When an RN assigns care to another RN, it is termed an assignment and not delegation, because both accountability and responsibility are transferred.

4. A nurse manager is experiencing considerable conflict among staff members because of weekend staffing coverage. During a called staff meeting, the nurse manager asks the disgruntled staff to meet as a group and determine the best staffing practices. In doing this, the nurse manager is using the concept of collaboration to: a. demonstrate interdependence. b. depict flexibility and broadmindedness. c. focus all energies of staff members on a best possible strategy. d. defuse the possibility that staff members will escalate their discontent when staffing the unit on weekends.

ANS: C When collaboration is used to solve a conflict or to create new directions, the energies of all parties are focused on solving the problem versus defeating the opposing party and creating the "best possible" versus an "okay" direction. When groups come together and mutual expectations are discussed and fostered, communication and collaboration are enhanced, which results in a more structurally empowered work force.

As a nurse manager, you notice that one of your new nurses has provided exceptional care for a patient with especially complex needs. What would be the MOST effective way of recognizing the nurse's performance? a. At the next performance review, note specifically what the nurse did to make the patient comfortable. b. To avoid embarrassing the nurse in front of others, find a way to compliment the nurse in private. c. When the nurse comes out of the room, tell the nurse specifically what you appreciated about the care that was provided. d. Encourage the patient to note the care on the patient feedback form so that the institution can recognize the nurse's efforts.

ANS: C Acknowledgement is most effective when it is specific, timely, given in public, sincere, and on an eye-to-eye basis. The more time that elapses between the event and acknowledgement, the less effective it becomes.

Pacific Hospital's team develops a process to include staff in development of the mission statement. Which of the following statements would indicate that the staff has been able to develop an effective mission statement? a. Pacific Hospital will increase its sustainability by increasing revenue streams within the next 3 years. Revenue streams are important to our hospital and are a driving force in our sustainability in the face of insurer and government funding changes. b. Pacific Hospital has a desire to relate to its community to enable appropriate identification of programming needs by July. c. Pacific Hospital will provide family-centered care to the community of Pacific Rim. It is committed to delivering a full spectrum of services that foster collaborative partnerships among clients, families, and the hospital, and it utilizes evidence-based practice to guide planning and interventions. d. To provide health promotion programs for school-aged children

ANS: C An effective mission statement reflects the values and direction of the organization. Included in the statement are beliefs about individuals, health, practitioners, and the relationship of the organization to practice, research, professionalism, and/or education.

To conduct assessment of the internal environment, the strategic planning team for Pacific Hospital: a. invites community members and staff of the hospital to an evening focus group session. b. discusses what it sees as the primary threats and opportunities in demographic shifts affecting the hospital. c. invites all levels of staff to focus groups on the effectiveness of the hospital environment, including information systems and staffing. d. asks the board to provide a summary of major opportunities for the future.

ANS: C Assessment of the internal environment should include all levels of staff and facilitates feedback on effectiveness of strengths and weaknesses of systems and processes within the institution.

The mediator asked each staff member to reflect on his or her communication style. Which of the following best describes communication? Communication: a. is a reflection of self-analysis. b. is a result of thoughtful consideration. c. consists of thoughts, ideas, opinions, emotions, and feelings. d. focuses on the sender of the message.

ANS: C Communication involves both senders and receivers and may or may not be a reflection of self-analysis and thoughtful consideration. It always, however, involves thoughts, ideas, opinions, emotions, and feelings.

Team Member A and Team Member B engage in heated disagreements on a frequent basis in team meetings. Their behavior is characterized by insistence on their points of view and refusal to back down or to negotiate alternative solutions once their ideas have been expressed. This behavior is characteristic of: a. autocratic leadership. b. constructive conflict. c. dualism. d. creativity.

ANS: C Our society tends to be dualistic in nature. Dualism means that most situations are viewed as right or wrong, black or white. Answers to questions are often reduced to "yes" or "no." As a result, we sometimes forget a broad spectrum of possibilities actually exists. Exercising creativity and exploring numerous possibilities are important. This allows the team to operate at its optimal level.

The nurse manager used a mediator to help resolve conflicts on the unit. During the mediation process, the nurse manager saw signs of potential team building. One key concept of an effective team is: a. conflict. b. task clarity. c. commitment. d. a designated leader

ANS: C Team building involves moving toward a common vision, which requires commitment. Conflict and clarification of tasks are components in the development of this commitment.

The SBAR system of communications is one of the most used communication systems in health care because: a. it deals with all aspects of communications in patient care except communication with the physician. b. the nurse is on the same communication level as administration. c. it honors a familiar, structured transfer of information among health professionals. d. it honors an unstructured transfer of information.

ANS: C The SBAR system was developed by professionals in the California Kaiser Permanente System and involves direct, respectful communication skills among professionals with the aim of quality patient care.

A private ambulance clinic established a few streets away from Pacific Hospital markets its services as quality-based within caring relationships. The clinic is part of the __________ environment. a. public b. macro c. competitive d. social

ANS: C The competitive environment includes factors and elements that compete for resources with another organization. These elements may include those in public and macro environments.

At the beginning of the strategic planning processes, Pacific Hospital learns that nursing staff members are uncomfortable with utilizing evidence-based practice, and that staff perceives that only limited resources are available to support translation of evidence into their usual practice. Because this issue has been identified, the management team determines that a plan of action is required to address the issue. Who should be involved at this point? a. Nursing unit managers b. Staff nurses c. All staff d. Administration

ANS: C The first phase in planning is conducting an assessment of the external and internal environments. Assessment of the internal environment should include all levels of staff and facilitates feedback on effectiveness of strengths and weaknesses of systems and processes within the institution.

From your observation of planning activities in the organization, you have noticed that planning and decision making occur at various levels of the organization. The nurse manager has overall responsibility for which of the following? a. Sending out postcards b. Organizing a telephone follow-up c. Monitoring ongoing activities and projects d. Listing the patient population

ANS: C The nurse manager should articulate organizational decision making for the criteria model adopted by the organization and monitor ongoing implementation of the plan.

After staff meetings lately, Sharon, the head nurse, observes her staff in small groups, having animated discussions that end abruptly when she approaches. Sharon reflects on this observation and realizes that: a. two very outspoken members tend to dominate discussions in meetings. b. this behavior is indicative of a high level of communication among her staff. c. staff members are very committed to the team and have strong opinions. d. ongoing discussion outside of meetings is conducive to creativity.

ANS: C When team communication is dominated by a few members, leaving others uninvolved or bored, disagreement is not expressed openly. As a result, team members "stuff" their feelings and wait until after meetings to voice their opinions.

The executive team at Hospital XYZ develops a polished strategic plan that includes a mission statement, goals, and objectives. The executive team involves the marketing team, so that the plan can be communicated internally and externally. After 2 years, no significant progress has been made toward any of the goals. What has been omitted in the plan? a. Planning b. Marketing c. Integrated financial planning d. Customer focus

ANS: C Without the inclusion of a business plan with the strategic plan and integration of financial planning and allocation of resources execution of the strategic plan can become paralyzed, even with the most effective communication of the strategic plan itself.

An experienced staff nurse applies for a distinct position of patient advocate at a new clinic. Based on the various tools available to her, which of the following should she bring to her interview to best present her skills? a. Résumé b. Annual evaluations c. Portfolio d. Patient advocacy project

ANS: C A portfolio enables prospective employers to view evidence of significant achievements and responsibilities that would be pertinent to the position.

A well-written letter of resignation is critical to: a. first announce your intent to resign. b. formally signal discontent in your current position. c. maintain a positive relationship with your former organization and colleagues. d. fulfill your legal obligations as a departing employee.

ANS: C A well-written resignation letter outlines your intent to leave the organization and your appreciation of the organization but should follow an initial meeting with your manager to first discuss your intention. A well-written letter maintains a positive relationship with the organization.

A nurse manager has been employed in the same facility for 20 years and has held the same position. This career style is known as: a. linear. b. spiral. c. steady state. d. entrepreneurial/transient.

ANS: C Career styles that are marked by selecting and staying in a role throughout a career are characterized as steady state.

A unit manager recently graduated as a clinical nurse specialist with a focus in gerontology. She applied to take a certification exam. Certification is designed to recognize: a. basic knowledge in a specified area. b. advanced practice in functional roles. c. special knowledge beyond basic licensure. d. continued competence as a registered nurse.

ANS: C Certification is an expectation in some settings for career advancement in advanced practice or in specialized areas and goes beyond basic preparation.

During an interview for a manager's position, you find the supervisor and staff unfriendly. Responses to questions are met with vague responses. After the interview, you decide not to pursue the position. What follow-up, if any, is most appropriate? a. There is no need for you to do anything further. You likely will not be offered the position anyway. b. You should file a complaint with human resources about the supervisor's lack of interviewing skills. c. You should send a thank-you note to the interviewer, indicating appreciation for her time. d. You should call and leave a voicemail, indicating your disinterest in the position.

ANS: C Even if you are disinterested in the position or think that the interview has gone badly, an appropriate follow-up is a thank-you note to the interviewer. This recommended follow-up creates a positive impression and may leave open the possibility of future interactions.

On your curriculum vitae, which of the following is the recommended approach for listing employment and educational history information? a. 1979 RN Diploma 1985 BScN 2002 MN b. 2002 Mount Rush Health Center Staff Nurse 1997 Cedar Falls Clinic Staff Nurse 2007 Kilkarney Rehab Center Case Manager c. 2007 MN 2005 BScN d. 1997 Sturgeon County Hospital Head Nurse 2002 Sturgeon County Supervisor 2007 Sturgeon County Director

ANS: C Information that is included in the body of the curriculum vitae should always be in reverse chronological order so that the most recent and, presumably, most relevant job information appears first.

During performance appraisal interviews, Joanne's nurse manager notices Joanne's excitement when she talks about how she has helped patients on a rehab unit understand the complexities of their regimens. When Joanne's nurse manager asks her about her career path plans, Joanne says that she wants to become a nurse administrator. The best response to Joanne would be: a. "Nursing administration is rewarding. What experiences would help you along this path?" b. "You do not appear excited about nursing administration. Unless you are excited by that career path, I wouldn't advise going in that direction." c. "You seem to find teaching others very rewarding. Have you considered that as a possible career path?" d. "You are too inexperienced to consider administration. Work for a few years, and then consider administration."

ANS: C Joanne evidences excitement about teaching patients, and although administration could be a rewarding path for her, education might be a better option for her to consider. Looking at job aspects that are rewarding is helpful in determining which career direction to pursue.

Professional associations: a. set regulatory requirements and establish entry requirements for nursing. b. offer graduate programs for clinical and career advancement. c. provide opportunities for career networking and support. d. are open to all individuals who meet the criteria for membership.

ANS: C Professional associations are frequently, although not always, voluntary groups whose members provide leadership in issues and policies of interest to nurses. Professional associations also offer networks of nurses with similar interests.

Which of the following situations is most likely to result in a productive, whole work situation? a. Amy, RN, 5 years of experience in the Emergency Department. Amy accepts a position working with older clients in a home health agency because she has relocated, and this is the only full-time position available. b. Adam, RN, 8 years of experience in various nursing positions, including that of a nurse manager. Adam accepts a new nurse manager position because he has a family and wants more regular hours. He is most comfortable working in direct client care. c. Louise, RN, 10 years of experience in an Emergency Department. She accepts a position as a case manager in home health care, working with older clients. She especially enjoys working with older adults and wants to take on leadership and management challenges. d. Courtney, RN, a new graduate. Courtney is getting comfortable with delivering nursing care as an RN. She is offered a position on surgery as a permanent team leader. The unit has had a great deal of turnover recently, and only limited mentorship is available.

ANS: C The whole of any work situation is composed of two elements: person and position. A productive, whole work situation results when a person's talents and strengths are successfully blended with expectations of the position. Of the situations described previously, the one most likely to result in a productive, whole work situation is that of Louise, who, although her experience has not been in home health, is interested in both the roles and the responsibilities of the position, as well as the target group being served. She also considers the group being served as an area in which she demonstrates strength.

The chief executive officer asks the nurse manager of the telemetry unit to justify the disproportionately high number of registered nurses on the telemetry unit. The nurse manager explains that nursing research has validated which statement about a low nurse-to-patient ratio? The low ratio: a. promotes teamwork among healthcare providers. b. increases adverse events. c. improves patient outcomes. d. contributes to duplication of services.

ANS: C improves patient outcomes. Studies related to staffing and patient outcomes suggest that patient outcomes are improved with a low nurse-to-patient ratio and especially with a low registered nurse-to-patient ratio.

An example of a career is: (Select all that apply.) a. employment in short-term contract jobs in business, nursing, and whatever is available. b. involvement in an area of practice that is regulated. c. continuous employment in the same position and the same arrangement for 20 years. d. moving into and out of nursing positions in various cities while pursuing travel and education that develop understanding of global health.

ANS: C, D Career refers to progression of skills, consistency, knowledge, and/or status. This movement through nursing life is predicated on having a vision of a career as opposed to a series of jobs. Career styles can be defined as linear, steady state, entrepreneurial, or spiral. Deepening skills in one area is an example of a steady state career style, whereas moving into and out of positions in various cities can characterize an entrepreneurial style. Involvement in a regulated field defines a professional interest but not necessarily a career.

A nurse manager is planning to request three new infusion pumps at a cost of approximately $1500 each. This item would typically be included in which budget? a. Operating b. Strategic c. Unit of service d. Capital

ANS: D Rationale: Items that have a useful life of longer than a year, which is likely with the pumps, and that have a cost that usually exceeds $300 to $1000 (specific amount is set by the organization) are considered capital items. Operating budget items include what is used on a day-to-day basis, such as staffing.

The primary reason for calculating productive hours paid instead of simply calculating work paid per year is that productive hours enable the manager to: a. anticipate total costs for patient care. b. know how much time staff will likely be unavailable because of illness. c. determine when orientation needs to occur for new staff. d. determine the number of hours available for patient care.

ANS: D Rationale: Total hours are critical for determining the total number of hours that need to be paid for the year. Productive hours are needed to determine what hours are actually available for patient care. The number of FTEs required is determined by dividing the total patient care hours required by the number of productive hours.

Which of the following factors is not implicated in rising healthcare costs? a. Rising expectations of consumers for cure and care b. Marketing of drugs to consumers c. Large administrative staffs to process medical billings d. Rising Medicare costs

ANS: D Rationale: Unintentional injuries, socioeconomic conditions (e.g., poverty and violence), marketing of pharmaceuticals, and the rising expectations of consumers with regard to what should be done to manage health concerns all contribute to rising healthcare costs. The costs of Medicare are not considered in relation to rising costs of health care.

11. John is interested in leadership positions within his nursing organization. Although he has been on the same unit for 10 years, he has attended two workshops during that time and has steadfastly refused opportunities to engage in leadership development opportunities or other learning offered as part of the hospital's succession planning strategy. He says that he is interested in a leadership role primarily because it will give him a more stable work schedule and will enable him to spend more time with his family. In coaching John, it would be important to: a. affirm that his years of service and stability on the unit are the most important attributes for assumption of a leadership role. b. reinforce that his concern with maintaining balance outside work would be a key factor in selecting him for a leadership position. c. encourage him to consider the financial rewards of the position, as well as the positive effect on his work schedule. d. encourage him to seek out new experiences and learning that will complement his existing strengths derived from experience and his interest in work-life balance.

ANS: D According to Covey, effective leaders continually engage in learning and self-renewal, as well as in maintaining a balanced life, radiating positive energy, believing in other people, being concerned with the common good, and being synergistic.

1. You are a member of a team assigned to care for 15 general medical/surgical clients. You have all worked well together in the past in this same type of care. If you are assigned to coordinate this team's work, your best strategy, based on the Hersey model, would be to: a. have a list of tasks to be accomplished and tell each member of the team what he or she must do. b. encourage people to discuss their frustrations in providing this care. c. ignore them—they've done it before. d. provide minimal direction and let them come to you with questions.

ANS: D According to the Hersey model, when ability (skills, job knowledge) and willingness are strong, the role of the delegator is less ("delegating behavior").

5. As part of orientation to your unit, you decide to administer Kolb Learning Style Inventory (LSI) to new staff. The most likely reason for your decision is that the use of Kolb LSI: a. reduces the cost of orientation. b. determines if there is fit between learner and organizational values. c. develops the strengths of the new staff member. d. enables individualization of learning to the learner's needs.

ANS: D Administration of Kolb LSI enables identification of the learning styles of new employees, which assists in focusing the implementation of orientation goals and in individualizing learning to the needs and learning style of the employee.

22. The senior executive praises John for the positive patient evaluations that his unit has received. As an effective leader, John: a. thanks the senior executive for having confidence in him and celebrates by going out to a special restaurant. b. points out the impact that the changes he has initiated have had on the unit. c. advises the senior executive that the mission statement and goals are important to him. d. points out the contributions of his staff to the outcomes and shares the praise with his staff.

ANS: D An effective leader is eager to share the glory with those who have worked with him or her to achieve outcomes and success. The act of acknowledging the achievement to the senior executive and of sharing the positive feedback with his staff empowers the staff and builds a support base for the leader.

Marie is a long-term staff nurse on the rehab floor. Her unit manager has been eager to adopt evidence-based recommendations related to family-centered care on the unit. Marie's response has been that she rarely has time to provide care to patients, let alone families, and that there is no good reason to do anything different than what she is already doing. An approach that may gain Marie's support of the idea is to: a. invite Marie to review the studies for herself. b. suggest that she does not need to provide family-centered care. c. avoid discussion of the idea with her until she initiates it. d. secure the support of her closest colleagues on the unit.

ANS: D As a skeptic, Marie, who is a late majority adopter, needs pressure from colleagues to move her toward support of the recommendations. The translation of research into practice requires that nurse leaders and managers understand group dynamics, individual responses to innovation and change (such as the response of late majority adopters), and the culture of their healthcare organization.

9. Electronic health records (EHRs) are being instituted at Pleasant Valley Hospital. Some of the staff on Unit 4 complain to the manager that acquiring the technologic skills required is too time consuming. They question its value in patient care. The manager responds that: a. the use of technology is inevitable in our technologically oriented society. b. the hospital is no longer able to find the space to accommodate paper record-keeping. c. the initiative is being driven by decision makers higher up in the hierarchy and there is no choice. d. EHRs will increase effectiveness of care by enhancing coordination and improving patient outcomes.

ANS: D As technology improves, informatics must be integrated with budget and personnel as a critical resource element. Basing practice on evidence-based care can assist in making solid decisions about resources and in leading and encouraging staff toward positive changes in patient outcomes. EHRs, for example, are expected to enhance coordination of care, improve health outcomes, and increase accuracy of diagnoses.

Within a multisite healthcare system, the most appropriate strategy for translation of research would be: a. widespread development of protocols using EBP at unit levels. b. dissemination of EBP and recommendations to individuals, units, and the organization. c. development of the skills of individual managers on how to build guidelines based on EBP. d. establishment of an interdisciplinary center to guide and lead the translation of research findings into practice.

ANS: D At a systems level, the most appropriate approach would be establishing a center that leads in, guides, and promotes EDP across and at various levels.

17. The final section of a performance appraisal is a rating scale. This scale is very detailed and relates to competency standards specific to surgical clients. The scale is a summary of performance directly observed or documentation reviewed and is specific to client care situations in which the employee has been involved. This type of evaluation is most commonly known as: a. a traditional rating scale. b. management by objectives/learning goals. c. a forced distribution scale. d. a behaviorally anchored rating scale.

ANS: D BARS contain both quantitative (rating scales) and qualitative data. They are specific to situations and positions.

13. A nurse manager in the ICU works with his staff to develop an appraisal instrument that includes quantitative data and respects standards for an RN working on that unit. This type of appraisal is a: a. rating scale. b. collaboratively based appraisal system. c. narrative instrument. d. behaviorally anchored rating scale.

ANS: D Behaviorally anchored rating scales (BARSs) describe performance quantitatively and qualitatively.

A method commonly used in quality assurance to monitor adherence to established standards is: a. a Pareto chart. b. brainstorming. c. patient interviews. d. chart audit.

ANS: D Chart audits are a common method of addressing process standards. Chart audits over time yield trend charts.

23. Nancy is a staff nurse who works on a rehabilitation unit. Nancy tells you that the assistants are experiencing difficulty with the new lift and wonders what your thoughts are on organizing an in-service training. Nancy is exhibiting which trait of a follower? a. Provides a vision for safety that is communicated. b. Thrives on taking risks in identifying the problem with safety. c. Coordinates the development of knowledge and skills necessary to use the lift. d. Assumes responsibility for identifying a safety concern and concedes authority for solution to you.

ANS: D Communication of a vision and risk taking are leader traits, whereas coordination is associated with manager traits. Taking responsibility while conceding authority to the leader is characteristic of followers.

18. Justin is a nurse manager in a rehabilitation unit in a small urban center. There is a high turnover rate among rehab-assistants because of the heavy work assignments. Despite his need for staff, Justin decides to review each application thoroughly and interview candidates carefully because he recognizes that it is important to hire staff who can best provide high-quality care and who will fit well with the team. Which of the following decision-making solutions should Justin consider to have a more efficient department? a. Replace staff only with qualified applicants. b. Determine what the problem or problems are before hiring new staff. c. Consult with the human resources department and develop a plan for hiring new staff. d. All listed are appropriate to consider.

ANS: D Decision making involves a goal-oriented consideration of many options that are objectively weighed according to their possible risks, consequences, and positive outcomes. The options should be ranked in the order in which they are likely to result in the desired goals or objectives. The solution selected should be the one that is most feasible and satisfactory and has the fewest undesirable consequences. In this instance, all of the options listed might be considered and weighed.

15. In delegating to a UNP in a home health setting, which of the following represents the most appropriate delegation communication? a. "You will be taking care of Mrs. S., who needs assistance with her bath." b. "You will need to help Mrs. S. get into and out of her shower. Ensure that you check the condition of her feet, and let me know if you have any concerns when you check in." c. "I am not sure that you know how to do this, but I am giving you Mrs. S. She is quite obese and needs skin care." d. "Mrs. S. needs help to get into and out of her bathtub. Her bath will need to be completed by 10:00. When you are helping her to dry, please check between her toes and toenails, and phone me by 10:30 if you notice nail discoloration or redness."

ANS: D Delegation communication includes what is being delegated (and what is not), outcomes, specific deadlines (if applicable), specific reporting guidelines (what, when), and who may be consulted. Communication also includes conveying recognition of the authority to do what is expected.

12. Sue, a nurse manager, has a staff nurse that has been absent a great deal for the past 3 months. A whistleblower gives some information to Sue indicating that the staff nurse will be resigning and returning to school. Because of this, Sue decides to do which of the following? a. Immediately fire the staff nurse. b. Speak to the whistleblower and elicit more information. c. Speak to the staff nurse and ask her to resign. d. Do nothing.

ANS: D Doing nothing is often warranted because of lack of energy, time, or resources to solve the real problem adequately, and because the benefits are not seen as sufficiently compelling to commit to an action. Do nothing may also be utilized when the individual is not able to do anything for the particular situation or issue.

2. After a newly hired director of nursing has reviewed the hospital's strategic plans, she develops a time line for achieving those plans. The new leader is: a. not expecting that novice leaders will have a vision. b. demonstrating mistrust of the abilities of her staff to implement the plans. c. instituting deadlines against which the performance of staff will be evaluated. d. translating a global document into realistic plans for nursing.

ANS: D Followers need three things from leaders: direction, trust, and hope. Developing time lines for the strategic plan involves translating a vision into reality and being able to communicate a vision meaningfully, which is an example of a leader's influencing behavior.

19. Susan, a new graduate on the dialysis unit, appears to take Kari's remarks very seriously and works even harder, often volunteering for extra assignments. She also is often in Kari's office, advising of successes with her patients and of the extra effort that she is committing. This behavior suggests that Susan: a. is fearful of losing her job. b. lacks understanding of Kari's leadership style. c. is not intimidated by Kari's leadership style. d. knows how to "play the game."

ANS: D Followers under transactional leadership feel secure about what will happen next or what is needed to be rewarded; therefore, they learn to "play the game."

5. After the nurses who work on an adolescent psychiatric unit have had a brainstorming session, they are ready to resolve the problem of unmanageable teenage patients. To maximize group effectiveness in decision making and problem solving, the nurse manager has: a. prevented conflict. b. formed highly cohesive groups. c. used majority rule to arrive at decisions. d. encouraged equal participation among members.

ANS: D Groups are more likely to be effective if members are involved, the group is cohesive, communication is encouraged, and members demonstrate some understanding of the group process. The nurse leader or manager should provide a nonthreatening and positive environment in which group members are encouraged to participate actively.

1. The risk manager informs the nurse manager of an orthopedic unit that her unit has had an increase in incident reports related to patients falling during the 11-7 shift. The nurse manager knows that the best way to resolve the problem is to: a. use creativity. b. obtain support from the 7-3 shift. c. use institutional research. d. identify the problem.

ANS: D Identification of a problem is the first step in problem solving and occurs before any other step. The most common cause for failure to resolve problems is the improper identification of the problem/issue; therefore, problem recognition and identification are considered the most vital steps.

7. A clinic nurse has observed another nurse deviating from agency policy in performing wound care. The best approach for the clinic nurse to take is to: a. stay out of it. b. inform the nursing supervisor. c. fill out a notification form (incident report). d. assess the risk to the client and the agency before proceeding.

ANS: D If the situation is subjective, nonroutine, and unstructured or if outcomes are unknown or unpredictable, the nurse leader and manager may need to take a descriptive or behavioral approach. More information (such as degree of risk to the client and to the agency) needs to be gathered to address this situation effectively.

5. The night nurse understands that certain factors need to be considered before delegating tasks to others. These factors include the: a. complexity of the task and the age of the delegatee. b. potential for benefit and the complexity of the task. c. potential for benefit and the number of staff. d. complexity of the task and the potential for harm.

ANS: D In delegating tasks to others, the nurse considers factors such as stability of the patient, safety of the situation and of the patient, time and intensity involved, and level of critical thinking required to achieve desired outcomes.

5. A nurse manager's responsibility for financial management involves making budgetary decisions. Budgets that allow the nurse manager to allocate resources at the unit level allow: a. minimal nurse manager input. b. limited rationale for budgetary requests. c. budgetary allocations at the executive nurse level. d. budgetary decision making at the point-of-service (POS).

ANS: D In organizational structures where decision making occurs at the POS, nurse managers are given some self-control, which includes preparing and implementing a budget that meets the long- and short-term needs of their unit without requiring hierarchical approval.

As the unit manager, you are interested in determining whether patient autonomy is preserved through informed consent in surgical settings. You determine that participatory action research is the best method to address this question. Which of the following is consistent with a participatory action research design? a. You interview 125 patients who have recently undergone surgery and transcribe the interviews to determine themes. Themes are validated with an expert in informed consent. b. You circulate a questionnaire to patients who recently underwent surgery and ask for their opinions regarding consent. Data is analyzed and the findings distributed to administration and other groups. c. An audit is undertaken of signed consents for treatment, to determine if the consent is properly witnessed and signed. Findings are used to inform changes in policies. d. You meet with a patient group to determine which questions should be asked about patient informed consent and what issues might be encountered and addressed during the research.

ANS: D In participatory action research (PAR), the members of the community being studied are integral members of the research team and are involved in identifying the questions and addressing the issues involved in the implementation of the research project.

19. As a nurse manager, you embrace the usefulness of resources such as Smart Bed. This behavior is important to: a. budget development. b. a manager's role. c. succession planning. d. encouragement of staff utilization of technology.

ANS: D Informatics such as Smart Bed facilitates effectiveness and efficiency in care. By becoming an early adopter of technology, staff members, particularly older staff, who may be less comfortable with technology, are encouraged to value its use in care delivery and management.

4. The director of nursing has been observing staff interactions in a 20-bed coronary care unit. Based on her observations, which of the following staff members is an obvious leader? a. The unit secretary who knows everyone's business b. The chief nursing officer who is in charge and is responsible for nursing services c. The chief cardiologist who admits the largest number of patients and brings in more revenue than any other physician d. The staff nurse who persuades other staff members to practice by making evidence-based decisions

ANS: D Leaders are those who do the best job of sharing their vision of where the followers want to be and how to get there. It is the ability to inspire others to bring a vision (such as evidence-based decision making) to reality and is not necessarily tied to status or information flow.

15. A nurse manager in a hospital is deeply concerned that senior administration makes decisions about budgetary directions that affect staffing and other resources without sharing the rationale for changes or demonstrating concern as to how these changes may affect patients orstaff. She says she does not feel respected and is emotionally tired as a result. This situation represents: a. bureaucratic organization. b. realities of current health care. c. negative organizational culture. d. lack of engagement by administration.

ANS: D Organizational culture refers to the basic assumptions and values of an organization and whether they contribute to relationships and decision making that is marked by empowerment, information sharing, and truthfulness. Positive work cultures contribute to a perception of being respected in the work environment. Collaborative organizational cultures are essential for nurse managers to proactively work in today's complex healthcare environment in a manner that engages them in their work. Interpersonal relationships can be fostered with organizational designs fostering a culture of collaboration, reward and recognition, communication, and a mentoring environment. This demonstrates a lack of engagement by the administration.

As a nurse manager, you know that the satisfaction of patients is critical in making QI decisions. You propose to circulate a questionnaire to discharged patients, asking about their experiences on your unit. Your supervisor cautions you to also consider other sources of data for decisions because: a. the return rate on patient questionnaires is frequently low. b. patients are rarely reliable sources about their own hospital experiences. c. hospital experiences are frequently obscured by pain, analgesics, and other factors affecting awareness. d. patients are reliable sources about their own experiences but are limited in their ability to gauge clinical competence of staff.

ANS: D Patients are reliable and motivated sources of their own experience but often do not have sufficient knowledge of clinical procedures to provide feedback about clinical competence.

The nurse gives an inaccurate dose of medication to a patient. After assessment of the patient, the nurse completes an incident report. The nurse notifies the nursing supervisor of the medication error and calls the physician to report the occurrence. The nurse who administered the inaccurate medication understands that: a. the error will result in suspension. b. an incident report is optional for an event that does not result in injury. c. the error will be documented in her personnel file. d. risk management programs are not designed to assign blame.

ANS: D QM stresses improving the system, and the detection of staff errors is not stressed. If errors occur, reeducation of staff is emphasized rather than imposition of punitive measures such as disciplinary action or blaming.

11. The turnover rate for RNs in the ICU is high. You discuss this situation with existing staff and you find out that because of the rapid turnover, new staff are frequently required to assume full responsibilities soon into the position and before training is completed. In considering approaches that will reduce turnover rates, the staff and you decide to implement: a. an employee recognition program. b. coaching for new staff. c. a new performance appraisal system. d. a committed orientation and training program.

ANS: D Retention of new nursing personnel begins on the day of their hire. This includes an effective, appropriate orientation and training program, which has a measurable impact on reducing turnover.

16. As a nurse manager, you identify that a shift in nursing care models might increase patient and staff satisfaction and avoid downsizing. Administration is reluctant to adopt this approach because downsizing is seen as critical to reduction of costs. To leverage your ideas, you: a. ask staff to send e-mails to administration encouraging consideration of your option. b. invite a senior member of administration to your staff meeting, so you can tell him what you are planning. c. write a letter of complaint to a member of the institutional board about the lack of openness of the administration. d. identify influential members of your nurse manager group with similar ideas and request an opportunity to meet with administration to discuss options.

ANS: D Staff members often look to nurse managers to lead them in addressing workplace issues with higher levels of administration. To do this, nurse managers must possess the ability to address power sources in the work environment and to define power-based strategies, such as in organizing a following of other nurse managers with similar concerns.

14. As a nurse manager on a urology unit, you note that there has been a marked increase in medication errors on the unit. Which of the following actions would be consistent with the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) measures? a. Staff are consulted regarding improvements in interprofessional approaches to patient care. b. Nursing staff are asked for input regarding the purchase of new medication carts. c. A recognition program is developed to acknowledge nurses who have provided safe and exemplary care utilizing skills in the staffing mix to optimize the delivery of patient care. d. Recent changes in staffing mixes are examined to determine if the timing of changes coincides with the increase in errors.

ANS: D The NDNQI measures are specifically concerned with patient safety and aspects of quality of care that may be affected by changes in the delivery of care or staffing resources. The quality indicators address staff mix and nursing hours for acute-care settings, as well as other care components. The NDNQI project is designed to assist healthcare organizations in identifying links between nursing care and patient outcomes.

At Hospital Alpha, there has been a 20% increase in instruments and sponges being left in patients during surgery and surgeries on the wrong limbs. These are known as: a. sentinel events. b. medically sensitive events. c. nurse-sensitive events. d. Never Events.

ANS: D The NQF and CMS define Never Events as errors in medical care that are clearly identifiable, preventable, and serious in their consequences for patients and that indicate a real problem in the safety and credibility of a healthcare facility. Examples of Never Events include surgery on the wrong body part, foreign body left in a patient after surgery, mismatched blood transfusion, major medication error, severe pressure ulcer acquired in the hospital, and preventable postoperative deaths.

17. Sally is an experienced nurse on the unit and is very experienced with ICP monitoring. She is assigned David, a patient who has been admitted with a severe head injury. In communicating with Sally, what does is an appropriate action by the charge nurse? a. Provide a detailed explanation of what she needs to do with ICP monitoring. b. Tell her when she needs to provide an update about David's status. c. Ask her to tell you what she knows about ICP monitoring and share expectations about reporting. d. Advise her that you are available if she needs you.

ANS: D The charge nurse and Sally have a well-established relationship and Sally has the expertise towork effectively with David; therefore, the charge nurse would need to provide little guidance but would need to communicate that they are available if needed. Hersey refers to this leader behavior as "delegating."

14. While explaining the importance of developing leadership skills among nurses to a group of first-year nursing students, Natalie, a nursing unit manager, emphasizes that: a. most nurses are not expected to assume leadership roles. b. the role of nurse leadership is only at the bedside, ensuring that patient care is performed according to established standards. c. only individuals in formal leadership roles are expected to be leaders. d. the public depends on nurses to assume leadership in moving consumer advocacy concerns forward.

ANS: D The complexity of nursing and the healthcare environment demands that all nurses assume roles of manager, leader, and follower, depending on the situation. Nurses are involved in providing leadership in direct patient care, in leading others at a unit or organizational level, in moving the profession forward, and in participating in legislative and policy arenas. Consumers depend on nursing leadership to carry the healthcare agenda forward.

24. The agency in which you are a nursing leader makes a decision to reduce the number of RN positions in favor of PN positions because agency data suggest that the clients in the agency can receive appropriate care from PN staff. Furthermore, the agency is facing a decline in funding and without restructuring, some clients might not receive services at all. You provide this information on this decision to the staff and ask them to advise you if they have any feedback, concerns, or alternative solutions. This decision-making style is known as: a. paternalistic. b. shared. c. reasoned d. informative.

ANS: D The informative model offers the staff the ability to make a decision after the information has been shared and without the active involvement of the manager.

14. You have hired a new RN to replace a well-respected and experienced nurse in your outpatient department. The new RN recently graduated and is nervous about stepping into a role that was previously filled by someone who was so competent. You recognize anxiety and set up regular, frequent meetings during which you explore how she is dealing with her anxiety, provide feedback, and discuss strategies/ideas that will enhance her performance. What development approach are you using? a. Performance appraisal b. Counseling c. Empowerment d. Coaching

ANS: D The overall evaluative process can be enhanced if the manager employs the technique of coaching. Coaching is a process that involves the development of individuals within an organization. This coaching process is a personal approach in which the manager and the employee interact on a frequent and regular basis with the ultimate outcome that the employee performs at an optimal level.

The chief nursing officer at a local hospital seeking Magnet® status creates staff development classes concerning translation of research into practice (TRIP). What best describes TRIP? a. Conducting an integrative review of the literature b. Searching the literature for a systematic review c. Providing the results of research studies to practitioners d. Applying strategies that aid in adoption of research in practice

ANS: D The science of how research is adopted is known as translation science, the science of translating research into practice (TRIP). The primary aim of research utilization is to activate the change process to move research findings into practice to improve patient outcomes.

19. When confronted with the controversy and the apparent poor morale of the evening staff, the unit manager decided the staff needed to take some time off. He scheduled holidays for the staff without consulting them. A couple of the staff nurses approached the manager and indicated that the problem was not scheduling, but rather the team leader and her patient assignments. What was the unit manager's first missed step in problem solving? a. Not using a problem-solving model b. Not considering a number of alternatives c. Poor evaluation of outcomes d. Incorrect problem identification

ANS: D The unit manager did not begin with an accurate identification of the problem. Problem solving needs to begin with "why?".

3. A key advantage that a charge nurse has in terms of delegating is that: a. clients receive less attention because too many staff make it difficult to coordinate care. b. nurses report less pressure to perform necessary tasks themselves. c. administration can predict overtime more accurately. d. team skills can be used more effectively.

ANS: D The use of multilevel healthcare providers enables healthcare organizations and nursing to provide patient-centered care, with a focus on abilities and skills that can be employed to perform "what is needed now." As tasks become more complicated, delegating skills to others enables the nurse to effectively deliver a complex level of care.

23. Jane, an experienced head nurse, is given the task of completing the summer vacation schedule for the pediatric unit. She is fully aware of the hospital's restrictions on time off and the number of staff on vacation at any given time, as well as its issues regarding seniority. She weighs the options of allowing staff choice, such as it takes more time but gives employees options. However, if choice is allowed, this could cause arguments. Which of the following is the best alternative? a. Ask for requests for vacation time in advance, and post the times. b. Post the completed vacation schedule. c. Post a tentative schedule, and request feedback. d. Post a blank schedule, and ask staff members to fill in their times by a given date.

ANS: D This is based on a decision-making model that allows experience and knowledge to predict whether a decision will or will not work. The experience of the head nurse suggests that it is important to involve staff in decisions that affect them the most.

10. You are working in a home health service and have three unlicensed nursing personnel (UNPs) assigned to your team. You have worked with two of them for 2 years; the third is new. The two experienced UNPs have patients with complex illnesses for whom they provide basic care. The third member of the team has been assigned to patients with less complex illnesses. Your best approach to supervising their care is to: a. remain in the office and ask each UNP to check in with you upon arrival at their first patient care site. b. ask another RN to supervise the two experienced assistants so you can be with the new person full time. c. meet the new staff member at the first patient care site and ask the others to call if anything is unusual. d. meet the new staff member at the first patient care site and call the others with questions to determine whether anything is unusual.

ANS: D When ability and willingness are strong, the involvement of the delegator is needed less.

24. Leslie, a UNP, transfers a patient while using improper technique. The patient is injured, and as a result, a suit is launched in which both Sarah (the delegator) and Leslie (the delegatee) are named. Sarah is named in the suit because she: a. retains accountability for the care of the patient. b. worked the same shift as Leslie. c. has passive accountability for delegation. d. retains accountability for the outcomes of care for the patient.

ANS: D Whenever care is provided by someone other than a registered nurse, accountability for care remains with the manager/delegator even though others provide aspects of care.

Which of the following is an effective approach in the appraisal of research studies? a. Accept only studies that use a RCT design. b. When ranking research studies, choose RCTs over qualitative studies. c. Select only studies with a large sample size. d. Evaluate the quality of the research against the standards for that type of research.

ANS: D While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are generally considered the gold standard for research, it is important to assess not only the method but also the quality of the study and its applicability to the question that is being asked. The quality of all studies should be appraised against the standards accepted for that type of research.

8. In a rural hospital, the unit for which you are charge nurse has a particularly busy morning. A 52-year-old patient is complaining of left-sided chest pain and a multiparous patient is about to deliver. A child with asthma is experiencing early signs of an attack. The other RN on the unit is a recent graduate who has not yet been orientated to the labor room and has limited cardiac nursing experience. An unlicensed assistant is available to assist. You must decide which patient situation you will take and where the new graduate RN's skills can best be used. Given the limitations in skills and experience, number of staff available, and time constraints, you must make a decision that involves: a. a higher order thinking process. b. selecting the best option for reaching a predefined goal. c. optimizing. d. satisficing.

ANS: D With this approach, the decision maker selects an acceptable solution, one that may minimally meet the objective or standard for a decision. This approach allows for quick decisions and may be the most appropriate when lack of time is an issue.

A nurse manager is experiencing conflicts between herself and staff members. She had tried to develop a team by using a shared leadership model to empower the staff. Staff members are functioning: a. as a team. b. independently. c. interdependently. d. as a group.

ANS: D A group is a collection of interconnected individuals working together, with a high degree of interdependence, for the same purpose. A team is a unified group that is committed to a common purpose, performance goals, and approach, for which they hold themselves mutually accountable. The conflict indicates that the staff may not be united in a common purpose.

The staff development educator developed strategies to help nurse managers actively listen. Guidelines for active listening include which of the following? a. Speed up your internal processes so that you can process more data. b. Realize that the first words of the sender are the most important. c. Be prepared to make an effective judgment of the communication sender. d. Cultivate a desire to learn about the other person.

ANS: D Active listening means suspending judgment about what is about to be said and listening to all that is said (and not just the first or last words). It is motivated by a genuine desire to learn about the other person

The unit manager was addressing nursing students in the lounge area and was discussing team leadership and team effectiveness. She stated, "One can agree to disagree with another team member's perspective even when one doesn't necessarily see that perspective as being the correct one." In being creative, what did she mean? a. Championing one's own opinion b. Being compassionate c. Being flexible d. Committing to resolution

ANS: D Caregivers must listen to the other person's perspective, listen to the message accurately, identify differences, and creatively seek resolutions.

As the nurse manager on a rehab unit, you are asked to come to the tub room immediately because two nursing assistants are having a loud disagreement in front of a patient. You ask the nursing assistants to meet you outside and after ensuring that a third nursing assistant is able to care for the patient, you speak with the two nursing assistants. Which of the following would you ask first? a. "How long have you two been working together?" b. "Have you experienced disagreements like this before?" c. "How do you think this patient's perception of her care has been changed?" d. "What happened to bring on this disagreement today?"

ANS: D Conflicts are usually based on attempts to protect a person's self-esteem or to alter perceived inequities in power. When a nurse recognizes upset and reaction, the following steps can be helpful (Sportsman, 2005): Identify the triggering event ("What happened to bring on this disagreement today?"). Discover the historical context for each person. Assess how interdependent each person is on the other. Identify the issues, goals, and resources involved in the situation

In the cardiac intensive care unit, there has been simmering discontent about the new nurse manager, who avoids any discussion about her scheduling and practice decisions. The staff have begun to sort into "different camps" depending on how they feel about the manager or the decisions. Which of the following statements MOST accurately describes this situation? a. The tension that has been generated will result in creative solutions. b. Staff will become a cohesive group that takes a stand against the manager. c. The conflict will result in increased dialogue about practice and scheduling options. d. Patient care may suffer because attention and energy is being diverted toward the unit relationships

ANS: D Destructive conflict polarizes groups, saps group morale, deepens differences in values, and diverts energy from more important activities, such as patient care. Constructive conflict opens up issues of importance, results in solutions to problems, and enables authentic communication.

After an extensive campaign to ensure that the community surrounding Pacific Hospital has been exposed to the emphasis of excellence in clinical care that occurs through the use of evidence, the marketing team finds that the public perception has changed little. This determination is made possible through: a. marketing surveys. b. focus groups. c. informal feedback. d. comparison of data against benchmarks.

ANS: D Developing benchmark data at the beginning of a project enables comparison of later data against the benchmark to determine if a marketing plan has met its objectives.

Benchmarks in the strategic marketing planning process are useful in: a. establishing programs. b. setting targets. c. rewarding employees. d. measuring progress.

ANS: D Establishing benchmarks enables measurement of the interim and final achievements of programs.

Sally (RN) and Melissa (RN) have shared an ongoing conflict since the first day that Melissa worked on the unit. Sally has confided to another colleague that she doesn't even know why the conflict started or what it was about. This is an example of: a. how expectations and objectives need to be made clear in team situations. b. the need to encourage open discussion of disagreements in opinions. c. the importance of involving all staff in discussions in group settings. d. the enduring nature of first impressions.

ANS: D First impressions are lasting and, as Sally indicates to her colleagues, are often an unconscious response.

Which of the following represents a well-written objective? a. Hospital-acquired infections are reduced, and procedures to reduce infections are implemented. b. To increase staff satisfaction and to decrease burnout. c. To increase the health of the community. d. To implement evidence-based practice on nursing units, as evidenced by adoption of evidence-based processes, by June 1.

ANS: D Objectives are specific (begin with word to followed by an action word; specify single result to be achieved; and specify a target date for attainment) and measurable (provide level of accomplishment at the end).

After a year, the staff at Pacific Hospital is frustrated, and implementation of evidence-based practice has gone poorly. In responding to this situation, the strategic planning team at Pacific Hospital: a. recommends that the mission, objectives, and goals of the hospital be reassessed. b. revises the goal statements in the strategic plan. c. consults an external team on preparation of materials on evidence-based practice. d. holds focus groups with staff to determine what kinds of issues, challenges, and obstacles have occurred in implementation.

ANS: D On a consistent basis, the strategic plan is reviewed at all levels to determine whether the execution of goals, objectives, and activities is on target. As stated, a sense of flexibility regarding the objectives is important to consider, and objectives may change as a result of legislation, budget changes, and change in structure or other environmental factors. Involving staff enables development of creative methods to ensure that necessary changes occur.

The nurse manager was upset with the staff nurse and said, "You did not understand what I said." Which element in the communication process was she referring to? a. Feedback between receiver and sender b. A message channel c. A receiver who decodes the message d. A set of barriers that may occur between sender and receiver

ANS: D Problems can occur at any point in communication and result in miscommunication. In this instance, it can be assumed that there was a sender, a receiver, a channel, and feedback. In this scenario, barriers such as distractions, inadequate knowledge, differences in perceptions, and emotions and personality may have resulted in misunderstanding between the manager and the staff nurse.

A community-based pain management program is being planned for your region. As a coordinator of a home care agency, you have been requested to develop a conceptual framework, mission statement, philosophy, and objectives for the program. In what order will you pursue this endeavor? a. Objectives, philosophy, and mission statement b. Philosophy, objectives, and mission statement c. Philosophy, mission statement, and objectives d. Mission statement, philosophy, and objectives

ANS: D The development of the mission statement is the first step in defining the purpose and direction of the organization after an assessment has been completed.

In implementing the strategic plan for effective utilization of evidence to guide nursing practice at Pacific Hospital, the nursing unit managers take the next step, which is the implementation. Implementation most likely would involve: a. revisiting the mission statement and objectives. b. reevaluating external and internal factors affecting evidence-based practice. c. preparing a budget to support implementation. d. developing unit-based objectives related to the plan.

ANS: D The previous planning (assessment of internal and external environments, development of a mission and plan, and allocation of resources) has already been completed. The next step involves adapting the strategic plan to the nursing units.

"I really wish that my supervisor would realize and acknowledge all the things I do well." In nursing, this has been identified as a problem. Which statement is part of the solution? Focus on: a. new staff. b. care assignments with which the individual is not familiar. c. making corrections. d. the strengths of the individual rather than the weaknesses.

ANS: D The research of Rath (2007) included many recommendations, one of which was that focusing on mediocre behaviors and on a person's weaknesses will not lead to excellence. Focusing on weaknesses tends to decrease the appreciation, and thus the acknowledgements.

You are offered an opportunity to take a temporary leave from your position as a nurse manager to lead a technology implementation project. Which of the following reasons for accepting the opportunity is most consistent with developing a solid career path? a. You are pressured to do so by your supervisor. b. The organization has no other suitable candidate for the position. c. You have limited knowledge of information technology and no real interest, but this will increase your knowledge. d. Accepting a position outside of your established skill set may establish you organizationally as an innovative, adaptable leader.

ANS: D Although giving into organizational or supervisory pressure may bring an enhanced learning and organizational profile, what is to be gained needs to be assessed against your career goals, interest, and aspirations. Increasing and expanding your skill set within defined career interests is a valid reason to consider a chance opportunity.

In preparing for a fair interview process as a hiring manager, you should: a. put water out for the candidates. b. ensure that you know the names of all candidates. c. dress comfortably and professionally. d. prepare a schedule of questions to be asked of all candidates.

ANS: D Although providing water, knowing names, and dressing appropriately sets a professional and respectful tone for the interview, developing a schedule of questions to be asked of all candidates is important for gathering comparative data and ensuring equitable treatment.

Before beginning her own nursing agency, a nurse worked with other temporary nursing agencies in nine states and multiple agencies. She had set a personal goal to start her own agency. What type of motivation does this exemplify in career success? a. Linear b. Spiral c. External d. Internal

ANS: D This is an example of internally motivated career success for the nurse. She set a goal and achieved the goal, meeting her own internal focus and resulting in her career success.

Thomas has been a nurse in your ICU for 10 years. In facilitating Thomas' professional development, the nurse manager would focus on: a. certification for the ICU environment. b. discussions about how Thomas can fit with role expectations and relationships. c. possible changes to other ICU environments. d. encouraging him to lead changes that leave long-term impacts after his retirement.

ANS: D Thomas is a mid-career professional. As such, you would expect him to be interested in honing areas of expertise (such as leadership or developing a deeper expertise in a particular area of ICU nursing) as opposed to gaining skills necessary for his work environment such as certification or becoming comfortable with his role and relationships in ICU, which would be critical to an early career nurse. Legacy building is characteristic of mid-career professionals.

A cover letter and a résumé together should be no longer than ________ page(s). a. two b. one c. four d. three

ANS: D Two pages are recommended for a résumé and one for a cover letter.

Which of the following are considered variable costs? (Select all that apply.) a. Salaries for the minimum number of staff b. Utilities and rent c. Managed care d. Supplies e. Medication and treatment supplies

ANS: D, E Rationale: The total fixed costs in a unit are those costs that do not change as the volume of patients changes. In other words, with either a high or a low patient census, expenses related to rent, utilities, loan payments, administrative salaries, and salaries of the minimum number of staff to keep a unit open must be paid. Variable costs are costs that vary in direct proportion to patient volume or acuity. Examples include nursing personnel, supplies, and medications.

The nurse on the 7-7 shift is assigning a component of care to an unlicensed nursing personnel employee. The night nurse should remain:

Accountable.

County Hospital has position descriptions for all staff, including RN Team Leaders. Sarah, a team leader on the rehab unit, assesses the needs of the patients in her area, assesses the skills and backgrounds of each of the individuals on her team, and then assigns and delegates the appropriate care provider to each patient and task. Sarah's activity in the example described is termed:

Active delegation.

Sally is an experienced nurse on the unit and is very experienced with ICP monitoring. She is assigned David, a patient who has been admitted with a severe head injury. In communicating with Sally, you would:

Advise her that you are available if she needs you.

You ask Evelyn, a new UNP, to check what is left in Mrs. N.'s inhaler when Evelyn makes visits to Mrs. N. and also to check whether Mrs. N. is receiving any positive effect from the medication. Evelyn reports for 3 weeks that Mrs. N. is using the inhaler and that there is enough medication left in the device. The day of her last visit to Mrs. N., Mrs. N. is admitted to the hospital in severe respiratory distress. When she is admitted, she tells the physician that she has not been using the inhaler for 4 weeks. Before assigning Evelyn to Mrs. N.'s care, the most appropriate action of the care coordinator would have been to:

Ask Evelyn if she has worked with inhalers before and to describe what she knows about them.

The nurse manager is setting up the room assignments for the unit. She has one critical patient on the unit, who is going to require more care than the others. Before delegating a task, a nurse manager should:

Assess the amount of guidance and support needed in a particular situation.

The day shift nurse asks an LPN/LVN to complete a component of care for a client. The day shift nurse is engaging in what function?

Assigning

Martin, the unit manager, receives complaints from community agencies that patients who have been discharged from his unit seem to lack understanding about their disorder and immediate strategies for managing elements of their care. Martin checks the patient teaching sheets and notes that the sheets are initialed by staff. He calls the agencies and indicates that teaching has been done. Martin's follow-up to complaints from the community is: a. Appropriate and indicates that he has assumed accountability for the actions of his staff. b. Indicative that he does not clearly understand the concept of accountability. c. Indicative of strong support for his staff and their autonomy. d. Important in clarifying the difference between his accountability and that of the community in patient care.

B

Nurses on the dialysis unit notice that changes in labeling of fluids have meant several alarming near misses in terms of wrong administration of fluids. They take this concern to the unit manager. As an advocate of nurse autonomy, the most appropriate response in this situation would be to: a. Ensure that the nurses are aware of the reasons for the change and how the decision was made about the new labels. b. Discuss concerns about the labels and develop potential solutions that take into account changes that can be made at the local level and those that need system intervention. c. Suggest that the staff wait until they have become more familiar with the labels before taking further action. d. Tell the staff that you will notify the pharmacy about these concerns and leave it up to the pharmacy to decide what should be done.

B

The chief nursing officer utilizes the hospital's Workplace Advocacy to help the overwhelmed emergency department staff. Workplace Advocacy is designed to assist nurses by: a. Creating professional practice climates in their institutions. b. Equipping them to practice in a rapidly changing environment. c. Negotiating employment contracts. d. Representing them in labor-management disputes.

B

The emergency department staff members are concerned that working long hours without rest puts patient safety at risk. One staff member decides that she will risk her job and become a whistleblower. Whistle-blowing is an appropriate recourse when management: a. Disregards due process when disciplining a nurse. b. Delays responding to repeated efforts to provide safe care. c. Hires nurses who are not a part of the union during a strike. d. Refuses to bargain in good faith with the elected bargaining agent.

B

The nurse manager has to develop a patient satisfaction survey. What is one of the critical elements in selecting a patient satisfaction instrument? a.Being able to use the same instrument for all clinical units b.Including items that are important from the patient's perspective c.Being able to administer the instrument before a patient's discharge from the hospital d.Being sure that the reading level is no higher than third grade

B Because satisfaction is a measure of service and service is a measure of perception of what matters to the patient, to measure satisfaction, surveys must include items that reflect the perspective of the patient. The quality of human contacts becomes the measure by which the consumer forms perceptions and judgments about nursing and the health agency. Consumers may not be able to evaluate the quality of interventions, but they always can evaluate the quality of the relationship with the person delivering the service.

In orienting new staff nurses to a pediatric intensive care unit, the nurse manager asks the staff nurses to answer the following question: "What is an important consideration in providing information to parents of a critically ill child?" a.Making sure that they receive complete information during each encounter with a member of the nursing staff b.Assessing parents' preferences for the amount of information desired c.Allowing parents to observe key aspects of their child's nursing care d.Making sure that patient education brochures explaining ICU protocols are readily available

B Consultation with the parents regarding the amount of information that they desire reflects a service orientation, in which preferences and needs of the consumer are placed first. The other answers reflect nurse-directed decisions in which the nurse decides what information and how much information is needed and how it is to be delivered.

The nurse manager analyzes the data from the patient satisfaction surveys. What can a nurse manager do to strengthen service recovery and improve consumer relationships? a.Post comparisons of patient satisfaction scores with those of other units on a monthly basis. b.Involve the staff in resolving consumer issues quickly and effectively. c.Ensure that staff members apologize to patients when they complain about services. d.Ask that patients with complaints about services place them in a written format.

B Consumers need to be treated with fairness, given explanation, and provided with information about how errors will be prevented in the future. Staff can be assisted to respond to patient concerns through scripting, support, and an atmosphere that places an emphasis on learning and solutions rather than on blaming.

A 27-year old woman is admitted to your ICU in a coma, following an accident. The family of the patient, who is a Native American, places a medicine pouch in the bed with the young woman. As the nurse in this situation, it is important to: a.Explain to the family that the medicine pouch may contain herbs that may bother other patients. b.Ask the family about the significance of the medicine pouch for them. c.Remove the pouch when the family is not present. d.Put the medicine pouch on the shelf beside the bed.

B Diversity encompasses more than differences in nationality or ethnicity and may include a variety of ways that patients are different from their healthcare providers. Nurses need to recognize the culture of their work setting, realizing that it may differ markedly from the culture of the consumer, and move beyond ethnocentrism to provide culturally competent care. This competence includes cultural knowledge, which involves actively learning about a community; cultural sensitivity, which entails valuing and respecting beliefs, norms, and practices of the people being served; and collaboration within a community (Flaskerud, 2007). In this instance, it is important to understand the meaning of the pouch for the family; removal from the bed without discussion does not demonstrate respect for the values and beliefs of this family.

During review of a patient's progress, the healthcare team determines that a patient requires treatment that is generally accepted at that time in the usual illness trajectory of a patient. The patient is unable to pay. As the head nurse, you persist in ensuring that this patient receives the treatment. You are: a.Empowering the patient. b.Avoiding litigation. c.Advocating for the patient. d.Supporting the clinical pathway.

C Advocacy means defending the rights and interests of others and, in this situation, the right of a patient to receive care, as determined by standards utilized in a critical pathway.

As a head nurse, you are concerned about the service orientation on your unit. Which of the following findings and approaches might provide useful information for you? a.Patients find nurses friendly and accessible; data are aggregated for the institution as a whole. b.Data indicate that nurses are responsive to requests for assistance; data are available for the unit and the institution. c.Specific questions related to management of comfort are included for the institution as a whole. d.The survey asks for a range of responses for the unit and the organization, with a focus on facilities, such as cleanliness and responsiveness of administrative services.

B The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI®) is a national repository for unit-based quality data that can be used by organizations to benchmark the outcomes of care against those of other institutions (ANA, n.d.). Unit-based quality indicators, including satisfaction with nursing care, are a key feature of the NDNQI®. In addition to hospitals being provided with their own and comparison data, researchers are able to access de-identified data in order to answer important questions about nursing care quality. Pain management, the discharge process, and post-discharge patient callbacks are specific areas where nurses can make significant improvement in patient satisfaction. Because patients and nurses may differ in what they see as factors that produce satisfaction, total reliance on nursing perceptions of patient satisfaction may not provide a complete picture.

Technology is integral to a cardiac ICU. Sue, the nurse manager, implements a patient-centered approach that focuses on the meaning of the experience for the patient and family, primary nursing, and a health literacy approach. Sue is: a.Using high-tech-low-touch approaches. b.Using high-tech-high-touch approaches. c.Providing products. d.Providing tangible products of satisfaction.

B The provision of humanistic care within a high-tech environment is characteristic of high tech-high touch approaches and reflects the idea that the more that high-tech is used, the more patients also desire high-touch.

John is an older adult patient who comes regularly to the multigroup practice in which you are a nurse practitioner. He says that he doesn't understand what he is supposed to be doing about his medications, because every time he comes to the clinic, he sees someone else who has different ideas. John's experience represents what aspect of the current consumer experience? a.Nurses are well-trusted members of the healthcare team. b.Fragmentation of care results in lack of respect and trust. c.Care providers often have conflicting ideas about care. d.The public does not trust care providers other than nurses.

B When consumers visit a multigroup practice, they do not have the option of selecting a specific healthcare provider, and thus, there is less opportunity to build a trusting relationship with a provider.

In Hospital STV, senior administration is strongly oriented toward fiscal and social conservatism. The nursing department is deeply concerned with the provision of quality to the community, which includes a high number of poor and unemployed. To accomplish the goals of the nursing department, resources need to be allocated that administration is not able to allocate. Nursing and administration: a. Are engaged in shared governance. b. Are involved in an irreconcilable conflict of interests. c. Represent separate subcultures in the institution. d. Represent union and nonunion conflict.

C

In an inner-city area, a group of nurses meet and develop a plan to negotiate with local businesses to support a breakfast program for young elementary children. This is an example of: a. Community development. b. Collective bargaining. c. Collective action. d. Shared governance.

C

The emergency department nurses' decision to organize for the purpose of collective bargaining is being driven by a desire to: a. Establish the staffing pattern that will be used. b. Determine the hours that one is willing to work. c. Create a professional practice environment. d. Protect against arbitrary discipline and termination.

C

While making rounds, a night supervisor finds a unit with a low census and too many staff members. The night supervisor is performing as a statutory supervisor when he or she: a. Assigns nurses to care for specific clients. b. Develops a protocol for unlicensed personnel. c. Recommends transferring a nurse to another service. d. Teaches a nurse to use a new piece of equipment.

C

Which of the following actions best exemplifies advocacy? a.Developing a list of agencies that will provide free services for the homeless b.Working in a needle exchange program for individuals in an inner-city environment c.Acting on behalf of a patient to promote end-of-life wishes to an ethics committee d.Working in a free clinic for immigrant workers

C Advocacy means making known and defending and protecting the rights and interests of others, as well as ensuring the dignity and respect due to others. Simply being employed in an environment where this might be a focus of practice does not necessarily ensure that advocacy is actually occurring.

As part of performance appraisal, the nurse manager designs strategies to acknowledge staff members. What practices by the nurse manager best acknowledge staff accountability and contribution? a.Providing new and varied learning experiences for staff members b.Fostering group cohesiveness through standardization of unit activities c.Allowing professionals greater influence over their practices d.Giving recognition for success and support for failure to staff members

C Facilitating greater control over practices implies trust and acknowledges expertise and performance.

The complexity of the healthcare environment for consumers is increased by: a.Falling levels of education among the public. b.Increased levels of poverty. c.Complex compensatory systems and a variety of delivery systems. d.Increased numbers of uninsured or underinsured.

C The complexity of options in health care and the processes and policies involved in funding health services for patients, as well as fragmented relationships with a growing variety of healthcare providers, contribute to the complexity of the system for patients, especially for those who might need it most, such as the poor, uninsured or underinsured, and homeless.

In writing the patient satisfaction survey, the nurse manager is aware of the education levels of the families. What is the most critical element in the concept of health literacy? a.Providing instructional materials at appropriate reading levels b.Facilitating access to translators for persons with language barriers c.Obtaining, processing, and understanding basic health information so appropriate decisions can be made d.Knowing that most people have limited health literacy skills

C The definition of health literacy used by the federal government is "the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions" (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2010).

A nurse is admitted to a psychiatric unit. The staff expresses frustration with her because they have explained several times her medication regimen, and yet, when she goes on passes, she fails to follow it. The staff believe that, as a nurse, she should be able to understand what is expected. The nurse's failure to follow the regimen indicates: a.Early cognitive impairment. b.Lack of motivation. c.Lack of health literacy. d.Worsening health state.

C What is evident from the response is that she lacks health literacy or the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services. Using a Health Literate Care Model involves weaving health literacy strategies into care by assuming that patients do not understand their health conditions or what to do about them, and then, subsequently assessing patients' understanding (Koh, Brach, Harris, & Parchman, 2013). For example, a nurse who is an expert clinician in a specialty practice area, when diagnosed with a serious chronic illness, may not have the appropriate background to make informed healthcare decisions.

The night nurse understands that certain factors need to be considered before delegating tasks to others. These factors include the:

Complexity of the task and the potential for harm.

Awareness and use of power have been challenging for nurses in general because of: a. Incidences of punishment by authority figures. b. Too little time in the workplace to collectively develop power strategies. c. Lack of cohesiveness and unity among nurses. d. A tradition of obedience to authority.

D

In a nurse managers' meeting, strategies for ways to help retain staff are discussed. One strategy for assisting nurses in developing collective action skills is: a. Accepting the practice of "going along to get along." b. Attending as many workshops as practical. c. Spending as much time as possible in clinical settings. d. Taking the opportunity to work with a mentor.

D

In looking at an organizational chart for her institution, Jennifer notes that nursing is led at the senior level by a non-nurse executive. Jennifer expresses concern that this is a reflection of how nursing is viewed within the organization. Jennifer's comments reflect: a. A concern that resource allocation will be made on a business and not a professional model. b. The dissatisfaction that occurs when lack of autonomy is given to nurses. c. Concern with the nonadvancement of nursing practice in the institution. d. An awareness of how organizational culture is reflected in organizational structure.

D

On Unit 62, the nurses and the unit manager have been involved in shared decision making to the model of nursing care delivery that the unit will adopt. All individuals have participated and been involved in decision making and implementation of changes. When issues arise during implementation, it is expected that: a. Accountability resides entirely with the unit manager. b. Individual expertise will be utilized to provide solutions, but that responsibility for the change is shared. c. No one really has any accountability or responsibility for the changes. d. This will contribute to widespread skepticism among the staff about the probability of success.

D

The staff members in a local emergency department are experiencing stress and burnout as the result of excessive overtime. The staff decides to unionize to negotiate for better working conditions. The increase in unionization within health care may be attributed to the: a. Movement from being "blue-collar workers" to being "knowledge workers." b. Excess profits in health care. c. Level of risk that exists for health care. d. Number of people who are involved in health care.

D

Which of the following exemplifies a service orientation? a.Staff members on the unit are encouraged to chart details about family support networks. b.Chart audit reveals that details related to assessment of family history are missing. c.The palliative care unit organizes a "tree of light" fundraiser each year to highlight the importance of palliative care. d.A children's preoperative holding area is initiated in response to requests from families and nurses who care for them..

D A service orntation needs to translate caring into appropriate, timely action that meets the needs of patients. Activities such as documentation of details or promotion of services may remain at the technical or conceptual level without a commitment to caring interactions. The institution of a holding area where families can be with children represents a caring action that arises out of interactions and knowledge of patient needs and thus, is service oriented.

The chief nursing officer decides to establish a client advocacy position in an oncology unit. Advocacy is best represented by: a.Establishing private and professional networking systems. b.Asking social services to handle clients' concerns. c.Identifying community support groups. d.Empowering others by promoting self-determination.

D Advocacy involves empowering and promoting self-determination in others.

The nurse manager on a pediatric intensive care unit wants to evaluate patient satisfaction. The nurse manager understands that ultimately, positive relationships with consumers of care are evaluated by the: a.Cultural sensitivity of staff. b.Cost-effectiveness of care delivery. c.Economic value of service. d.Outcomes for clients and their perceptions of care.

D Trend-setting organizations such as MagnetTM organizations need to demonstrate excellence in outcome data such as patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction and perception of the quality of care are affected by the quality of the nurse-patient relationship. Valid measurement of patient satisfaction is an evolving science; nurses do not always accurately gauge what factors are most important to patients. Satisfaction measures are often skewed in a positive direction with scores clustered at the top of the scale.

You ask Evelyn to check what is left in Mrs. N.'s inhaler when makes visits also to check if she is receiving positive effects from medication. for 3 weeks that Mrs. N. is using the inhaler and that there is enough medication left. day of her last visit to Mrs. N. is admitted to hospital in severe respiratory distress. When admitted, reports not been using inhaler for 4 weeks.

Failure to follow through.

During staff development programs, staff nurses verbalize their frustration about their workloads and having to delegate so many tasks to others. One of the main reasons that delegation has emerged as an issue is because of:

The complexity of client care.

During a fire drill, the nurse manager becomes very assertive and directive in her communications with staff. This type of situational leadership depends on:

The development level of the followers and the type of behavior of the leader.

Which of the following would be most in line with Hersey and Blanchard's concepts?

The team of caregivers on day shift are familiar with their roles and with the patients. The nurse manager decides to work on the unit budget in her office.

Clinical incompetence is a problem facing a nurse manager. Joyce, the nurse manager, is not aware of the problems of Sarah, a novice nurse. After she investigates, it is obvious that Sarah's peers are covering for her. Which of the following might Joyce include in her meeting with the nurses? (SATA) a."It is a nurse's professional responsibility to maintain quality control." b."All instances of clinical incompetence are to be reported." c."It is not considered being disloyal when one nurse reports another for poor care." d."Patient care is the number one concern. Meeting standards is mandatory and necessary."

a "It is a nurse's professional responsibility to... b "All instances of clinical incompetence... c "It is not considered being disloyal when... d "Patient care is the number one concern...

The unit manager discusses absenteeism with the unit clerk. She indicates that it is a serious problem on the unit. Which of the following points would they have likely discussed?(SATA) a. Employee morale is at a high level. b. Care will suffer and standards will be lo-wered. c. Existing staff have experienced little ef-fect from the absenteeism. d. Replacement staff usually needs little su-pervision. e. Unit costs have increased because of staff replacements and overtime.

a. Care will suffer and standards will be lowered. e. Unit costs have increased because of staff replacements and overtime.

During unit staff meetings, you observe that Marg rolls her eyes and snorts whenever Julia makes a comment. Your first response as a unit manager is to: a. Discuss what you have observed with Marg. b. File immediate documentation in Marg's personnel file. c. Ask Julie to monitor Marg's behavior during meetings. d. Ignore the behavior, as Marg is one of your strongest nurses.

a. Discuss what you have observed with Marg.

All of the following are grounds for immediate dismissal except: a. Failing to pursue further medical help for a patient; patient dies. b. Selling narcotics obtained from the unit supply of narcotics. c. Restraining a patient in bed for 7 hours, unsupervised, as punishment for hitting a staff member. d. Grabbing the unit manager and threatening further physical harm after a poor performance appraisal.

a. Failing to pursue further medical help for a patient; patient dies.

In keeping with guidelines of the organization, the nurse manager documents staff problems. Documentation of disciplinary problems should: a.Include a plan to correct them and to prevent future occurrences. b.State a detailed history of past problems that are related to the current one. c. Be written at the convenience of the manager. d. Accumulate until the evaluation period begins

a. Include a plan to correct them and to prevent future occurrences.

Nathan has been on the cardiac unit for 6 months and has found it difficult to adjust to the expectations of his team. Which of the following behaviors would most likely signal that Nathan is intending to resign from his position on the unit? a. Increased absenteeism over the past month b. Increased attempts to discuss his concerns with his colleagues c. Testing of workplace guidelines d. Frequent defensiveness

a. Increased absenteeism over the past month

Susan, a new graduate, is upset that so many staff have been absent lately from the unit. She declares to you that all absenteeism could be eliminated with proper management. Your response is based on understanding that: a. Not all absenteeism is voluntary. b. High personal control contributes to absenteeism. c. Direct discussions with employees who have high levels of absenteeism are not recommended. d. All absenteeism is related to personal issues and needs.

a. Not all absenteeism is voluntary.

Before terminating an employee, a nurse manager must: a.Be an expert in all legal aspects of termination and discipline practices. b.Know the organization's specific policies for addressing disciplinary problems and termination. c.Function as a counselor for problem employees. d.Do everything to assist and protect the employee by adjusting standards and policies.

b. Know the organization's specific policies for addressing disciplinary problems and termination.

A nurse manager understands that the second step in handling an employee with a disciplinary problem is to document the incident. Which of the following is best for documentation of personnel problems? a. Use of the performance appraisal on an annual basis b. Notes made immediately after an incident that include a description of the incident, actions taken, plans, and follow-up c. A tally sheet of medication errors and other specific problems that will be used at annual review d. Copies of reports, placed in his or her file, of all unusual occurrences involving the employee

b. Notes made immediately after an incident that include a description of the incident, actions taken, plans, and follow-up

The education consultant for the hospital is presenting a workshop titled "Documentation: A Manager's Responsibility." Which of the following points would she not include in her PowerPoint presentation? Documentation: a. Cannot be left to memory. A notation must be placed in the personnel file. b. Should avoid discussion of the problem. c. Should include what was done about the problem when it occurred. d. Needs to include date, time, and place.

b. Should avoid discussion of the problem.

Nurse Stacey is a self-admitted drug addict and has been a heavy abuser of codeine. Stacey and the unit manager decide that changes have to occur. Stacey enrolls in an addiction program, and the manager has her transferred to a drug-free area. What other strategies might be appropriate? a. The manager could refer Stacey to the Human Resources Department. b. The manager could assist in monitoring Stacey's progress. c. The manager could counsel Stacey if Stacey has formed a trusting relationship with her. d. Stacey needs to be asked not to involve her family in the recovery program because this is a work-related situation.

b. The manager could assist in monitoring Stacey's progress.

The most important approach that a nurse manager can take with an emotionally troubled employee is to: a.Act as a therapist for the employee. b.Adjust the standard of care to assist the employee. c.Assist the employee in obtaining professional help. d.Adjust the employee's work schedule to decrease stress

c. Assist the employee in obtaining professional help.

Nurses generally experience difficulty in identifying behaviors and actions that could signal chemical dependency in a co-worker. Which of the following is not a behavioral change that occurs with chemical dependency? a. Personality and behavioral changes b. Job performance changes c. Changes in educational involvement and pursuit d. Absenteeism

c. Changes in educational involvement and pursuit

A nurse manager must be familiar with the agency's policies regarding termination. Termination procedures include which of the following? a. Following specific procedures from other organizations b. Having an attorney present at the termination meeting c. Having adequate written documentation to support the action d. Having a friend present during the termination meeting

c. Having adequate written documentation to support the action

The nurse manager places a staff member on probation because of reports of chemical dependency. The nurse manager should be aware that which of the following statements is true regarding chemical dependency? a. The chemically dependent employee usually hides any changes in behavior. b. When confronted with the issue, the affected employee is usually relieved to have someone to talk to about the problem. c. The chemically impaired nurse affects the entire healthcare organization. d. Hospital policy, state laws, and nurse practice acts address procedures for the chemically dependent employee in the most general terms

c. The chemically impaired nurse affects the entire healthcare organization.

A new graduate is asked to serve on the hospital's quality improvement (QI) committee. The nurse understands that the first step in quality improvement is to: a. collect data to determine whether standards are being met. b. implement a plan to correct the problem. c. identify the standard. d. determine whether the findings warrant correction.

c. identify the standard. Before further action (data collection, decision making related to correction, and implementation of a plan) can occur, it is necessary to identify the standards against which data collection and decision making will occur. Institutions may or may not adopt standards that are already established by organizations such as the ANA.

When progressive discipline is used, the steps are followed progressively only for repeated infractions of the same rule. On some occasions, rules that are broken are so serious that the employee is: a. Transferred to another unit. b. Suspended indefinitely. c. Asked to attend a union grievance meeting. d. Terminated after the first infraction.

d. Terminated after the first infraction.

Ellen is a novice nurse on your unit. Even though she has come to you highly recommended, as her supervisor, you have noticed some knowledge and skill deficiencies. These deficiencies have been noticed by her peers as well, who cover for her because she is new and they like her. Which of the following is likely to be the greatest asset to Ellen in improving her performance? a. Ignore Ellen's errors until she has more experience. b. Instruct staff to avoid working with Ellen until she learns to how do things herself. c. Ask Ellen to complete a self-assessment, using a standard skills checklist. d. Encourage staff to report every behavior of Ellen's that is different from theirs.

d. Encourage staff to report every behavior of Ellen's that is different from theirs.

The chief nursing officer understands that clinical incompetence is best prevented by a: a. Flexible protocol for evaluating competency skills. b. Standardized clinical skills checklist. c. Administration of personality tests and competency assessments at point of hire. d. Formalized competency program with established standards for practice.

d. Formalized competency program with established standards for practice.

The chief nursing officer reviews the policy about "progressive discipline process." The progressive discipline process includes which of the following? The manager: a. Is a counselor and friend to the employee. b. Should reprimand and suspend the employee as a last resort. c. Should rehire the employee after a reasonable length of time. d. Should terminate the employee if the problem persists.

d. Should terminate the employee if the problem persists.