Leadership Final

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.

ANS: A, B, C

Organizational culture includes: (Select all that apply.) a. norms. b. traditions. c. behaviors. d. values.

A, B, C, D

A staff nurse wants to become a charge nurse. What is one of the most effective methods for the staff nurse to incorporate to effectively transition to charge nurse? a. Read a book on charge position. b. Integrate prior experience to new role. c. Do things the way always done. d. Change units to be a charge on different unit.

Integrate prior experience to new role.

A new nurse leader wants to be the best leader she can. The nurse takes classes, finds and leadership mentor, seeks input from her unit, and employs other strategies for leadership development. What is another strategy for the leader to develop and improve leadership skills? a. Proactive learning b. Ignoring feedback c. Being in charge d. Authoritative position

Proactive learning

As a charge nurse, you counsel your RN staff member that they have has their duty of care by notifying a child's physician regarding concerns about deterioration in the child's status at 0330 hours. The physician does not come in to assess the child and does not provide additional orders. The child dies at 0630 hours. As the charge nurse, you could be held liable for what? a. Professional negligence b. Assault c. Avoidance d. Murder

Professional negligence

The charge nurse of a unit is asking the staff what patients they had the day before to make assignments for the day. A new nurse complains about having the same patients every day. The charge nurse considers the new nurse request at an assigned to different patient for today. What type of leadership is the charge nurse displaying? a. Informal leadership b. Formal leadership c. Favoritism d. No leadership displayed

Formal leadership

The chief nursing officer understands that clinical incompetence is best prevented by a(n): 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. ANS: D

A staff nurse in the area that you manage has excelled in the delivery of patient education. You are considering implementing a new job description that would broaden her opportunity to teach patients and orient new staff members to the value of patient education. What ethical principle is being reinforced? a. Justice b. Fidelity c. Paternalism d. Respect for others

Paternalism

In a telehealth organization, a nurse who is licensed in New York and Pennsylvania provides teaching to a patient who resides in Pennsylvania. The patient charges that the teaching failed to provide significant information about a potential side effect, which led to delay in seeking treatment and untoward harm. Under which state nurse practice act and standards would this situation be considered? a. New York b. Pennsylvania c. Neither New York nor Pennsylvania d. Both New York and Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania

The nurse manager is working with a group of new nurses. The new nurses ask questions about leadership and the role of a manager in leading nursing. The manager shares she has incorporated her core values and beliefs into her role and responsibilities as a nurse manager. What type of leadership has she described? a. Positional leadership b. Personal leadership c. Formal leadership d. Information leadership

Personal leadership

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.

c. it honors a familiar, structured transfer of information among health professionals. ANS: C

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.

d. informative. ANS: D

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.

delays responding to repeated efforts to provide safe care.

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.

effectiveness.

Nursing labor-management partnerships: a. engage nurses at all levels in problem solving for better patient care. b. require unions and management to negotiate in good faith regarding hours of work and wages. c. have been shown to have negligible effects on nurse turnover and patient outcomes. d. have typically resulted in increased polarization of nurses and management, leading to formation of collective bargaining units.

engage nurses at all levels in problem solving for better patient care.

A local hospital has formed a corporate partnership with a reputable HMO (health maintenance organization). The nurse manager has had to educate staff and personnel about the financial implications of this partnership. An HMO: a. provides more expensive care than other types of insurance plans. b. has a centralized administration that directs and compensates physician services. c. pays physicians on a fee-for-service basis. d. does not pay as much for acute care as other practice plans.

has a centralized administration that directs and compensates physician services.

Collaborative partnerships between hospitals and schools of nursing are examples of hybrid organizational structures. A hybrid organizational structure: a. has many divisions of labor. b. best fits long-term care units. c. has a mixture of the characteristics of various organizational types. d. places the authority for decision making closest to the places where workers perform.

has a mixture of the characteristics of various organizational types.

The Wellington Mental Health Institute is fully accredited by the AOA and not directly by the CMS. This means that the Wellington facility: a. cannot accept mental health patients who are Medicare beneficiaries. b. can care for only Medicaid and not Medicare beneficiaries. c. has not met the standards set by the CMS as determined by an external review panel. d. has been reviewed and accredited by the AOA, which is a deeming authority for CMS.

has been reviewed and accredited by the AOA, which is a deeming authority for CMS.

In matrix organizational structures, a nurse manager understands that this type of structure: a. is a simplified organizational structure. b. has both a functional manager and a service or product-line manager. c. arranges departments strictly according to function. d. promotes harmony in organizational decision making.

has both a functional manager and a service or product-line manager.

The nurse manager decides to use a mediator to help resolve the staff's conflict. A basic strategy for truly addressing this conflict is to: a. identify the conflicting facts. b. be determined to resolve the conflict. c. schedule a meeting time for resolution. d. have a clear understanding of the differences between the parties in conflict.

have a clear understanding of the differences between the parties in conflict.

When hiring a case manager for a rehabilitation setting, you would most likely consider a: a. registered nurse with a master's degree. b. physiotherapist with a background in stroke rehabilitation. c. social worker with a background in counseling. d. health professional with advanced background who is client and outcome focused.

health professional with advanced background who is client and outcome focused.

The nurse manager is comparing functional nursing and primary nursing for potential adoption. The nurse manager determines that patient and nurse satisfaction in primary nursing are: a. similar to those in functional nursing. b. not of significance in either model. c. low by comparison with functional nursing. d. high when compared with functional nursing.

high when compared with functional nursing.

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.

identify a clinical activity for review.

An important aspect of managing the costs on a unit is to plan accurately for staffing needs. Nurse managers use staffing plans to: a. assign staff on the unit on a daily basis. b. ensure that days off are planned for the staff. c. outline the number of individuals by classification on a per-shift basis. d. predict the numbers and classifications of float staff needed to augment regular staff.

outline the number of individuals by classification on a per-shift basis.

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.

risk management programs are not designed to assign blame.

To maintain patient safety, studies suggest that scheduling should avoid: a. rotating shifts. b. weekends. c. 8-hour shifts. d. mandatory overtime.

rotating shifts.

To satisfy duty of care to a patient, a nurse manager is legally responsible for all of the following except: a. notifying staff of changes to policies related to medication administration. b. scheduling and staffing to ensure safe care. c. delegating in accordance with practice acts. d. supervising the practice of the physician.

supervising the practice of the physician.

"Georgia Hospital will provide care that is a national example of consumer service" is a: a. vision statement. b. statement of philosophy. c. mission statement. d. rationale for care.

vision statement.

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.

nursing care standards.

A staff nurse is the person on the unit everyone seeks for input and asks questions. What type of leadership position is the staff nurse displaying? a. Position leadership b. Informal leadership c. Personal leadership d. Formal leadership

Informal leadership

A small rural hospital has been designated as a critical access hospital. It has 40 beds and an average occupancy of 34 beds. To prepare the staffing, the chief nursing officer computes the occupancy as being: a. 90%. b. 85%. c. 75%. d. 60%.

85%.

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

A group of your staff members goes to the administration to propose closing of a different unit.

During a staff meeting held to discuss developing a mission statement for the unit, the idea of placing patient needs first is discussed. What is considered when the suggestion by the manager is for the unit mission to be derived from the organization mission? a. Empowering b. A leadership tag c. A symbol d. A management task

A leadership tag

As a leader on a rehab unit, the manager encourages all staff members to see themselves as having a role in decision making and quality care. The manager sees their role as involving particular responsibilities in decision making but not as a hierarchal role. What is this view of the role consistent with in this situation? a. Trait theories b. Complexity theory c. Situated theory d. Emotional intelligence

Complexity theory

The American Nurses Association has advocated for the Registered Nurse Safe Staffing Act. This legislation is based on ANA Safe Staffing Principles and takes what factors into consideration for planning staffing on a nursing unit? a. Patient acuity and complexity b. Education and training of the nurses c. Technology available and use on the unit d. All factors listed are to be considered

All factors listed are to be considered

Elizabeth, an RN with approximately 15 years of service on your unit, walks away from one of the learning sessions on IV care and you overhear her telling a colleague that she thought the session was a waste of time because "the unit has been using heparin for years and there has never been any adverse effects." According to Havelock (1973), this comment may originate from failure in which phase of the six phases of planned change? a. Generating self-renewal b. Choosing the solution c. Diagnosing the problem d. Building a relationship

Building a relationship

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.

Call a meeting of all staff to discuss this issue.

The nurse manager at a cardiac rehabilitation unit was asked to select a care delivery model. Which of the following methods would be the most cost-effective? a. Functional method b. Case management method c. Primary care method d. Team method

Case management method

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.

Develop the clinical question.

Complex care of acutely ill patients is required on a surgical unit, which utilizes differentiated nursing practice as its model of care delivery. On what is the concept of differentiated nursing practice is based? a. Licensure status b. Experience in the agency c. Leadership capabilities d. Education and expertise

Education and expertise

A dispute arises between an RN and an LPN over a patient issue. The tension continues between the two and begins to affect other staff members, who are drawn into the conflict. Over time, the team becomes polarized toward either the RN or the LPN. How might this situation be prevented? a. Expediency in responding to the initial dispute, once it became apparent that it could not be resolved by the two parties themselves b. Asking other staff members what the real issues were in the dispute between the RN and the LPN c. Reassigning one of the parties to another unit when it became apparent that the two individuals could not resolve the dispute themselves d. Calling a staff meeting at the onset of the dispute to allow the team and the RN and LPN to discuss the initial dispute

Expediency in responding to the initial dispute, once it became apparent that it could not be resolved by the two parties themselves

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

Histogram

To engage your staff in awareness of their current practice and how it is affirmed or not by evidence, you plan a short series of learning presentations on evidence and use of heparin and saline to maintain IV patency. You meet with the educator to plan out the goals for each session with the overall purpose of increasing knowledge and awareness of staff in readiness to consider questions related to the IV practice. Staff nurses who gain information on current IV therapy practices are engaging in which phase of Rogers' decision-making process? a. Persuasion b. Knowledge c. Confirmation d. Decision

Knowledge

What would be the most appropriate focus in developing a business plan for a nurse-owned home healthcare service? a. Programs to educate the community on preparing healthy meals for a limited cost b. Reduction of injuries from alcohol-related accidents c. Pain management for patients with low back pain d. Reduction of falls among seniors

Pain management for patients with low back pain

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.

RCT.

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

Soliciting input from staff members

According to the complexity theory, what would be the focus of measurement? a. Cost per hospital day b. Bed utilization c. Infection rates d. Staff morale and budgets

Staff morale and budgets

After using a mediator to resolve a conflict between the nurse manager and two staff nurses, the chief nursing officer decides to: a. observe to make sure the conflict has been resolved. b. fire both staff nurses. c. reassign both staff nurses. d. reassign the nurse manager.

observe to make sure the conflict has been resolved.

The core of leadership is awareness. The text by Don Miguel, The Four Agreements, presents a set of agreements to enhance personal growth and awareness. What is not one of the four agreements? a. Be impeccable with your word. b. Take things personally. c. Do not make assumptions. d. Always do your best.

Take things personally.

As a nurse manager, you have been asked to assist in designing a subacute facility for open heart patients who require further complex care after hospitalization. In setting up the facility, what would require reassessment? a. Patients admitted to the facility must have adequate health insurance to cover the services provided. b. A local nurse education program asks you if nursing students can gain clinical experience with recovering surgical patients in the facility. c. Public funding will be provided to enable care of patients who have an ordinary course of recovery. d. The facility is an older house that is more than 30 minutes away from the acute care center.

The facility is an older house that is more than 30 minutes away from the acute care center.

As a nurse manager in a hospital, you would expect what to be the major contributor to funding and revenues in your organization? a. The federal government b. Medicare c. Medicaid d. Blue Cross/Blue Shield

The federal government

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

The staff nurse who persuades other staff members to practice by making evidence-based decisions

The nurse manager is aware that conflict is occurring on her unit; however, she is focused on preparing for a state health department visit, so she ignores the problem. What factor can increase stress and escalate conflict? a. The use of avoidance b. An enhanced nursing work force c. Accepting that some conflict is normal d. Managing the effects of fatigue and error

The use of avoidance

In trying to achieve Magnet® status, the chief nursing officer establishes a shared governance model to help nurses experience job satisfaction. However, some nurses who have enjoyed working with less autonomy resist this change and begin to criticize and make rude comments about managers who embrace this model, as well as colleagues who support it. The comments are largely ignored because those who are making them are well established nurses who are often vocal about their displeasure with the organization. Organizational conflict is arising from which of the following? a. Staffing practices b. Increased participation in decision making c. Allocation of resources d. Tolerance of incivility

Tolerance of incivility

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

Transactional

A unit manager of a 25-bed medical/surgical area receives a phone call from a nurse who has called in sick five times in the past month. He tells the manager that he very much wants to come to work when scheduled but must often care for his wife, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. According to Maslow's need hierarchy theory, what would be the best approach to satisfying the needs of this nurse, other staff, and patients? a. Line up agency nurses who can be called in to work on short notice. b. Place the nurse on unpaid leave for the remainder of his wife's treatment. c. Sympathize with the nurse's dilemma and let the charge nurse know that this nurse may be calling in frequently in the future. d. Work with the nurse, staffing office, and other nurses to arrange his scheduled days off around his wife's treatments.

Work with the nurse, staffing office, and other nurses to arrange his scheduled days off around his wife's treatments.

A facility that provides care for patients whose average length of stay is less than 30 days and to patients whose average length of stay is longer than 30 days, and who require inpatient and ambulatory care for addictions, through a spectrum of wellness and illness services and providers, would be considered: a. a healthcare network. b. a tertiary care institution. c. rehabilitative. d. long-term care.

a healthcare network.

Elizabeth is an example of a(n): a. early adopter. b. late majority. c. laggard. d. resister.

laggard.

What would be the most appropriate mission statement for a nursing center? a. "At Plentyville, we provide rehabilitative services for addicted adolescents." b. "Georgiatown provides treatment and prevention services for county residents." c. "At Heart, our aim is to provide services that lead the nation in health education and research." d. "At Coeur, we strive to achieve optimal pain management with patients who are experiencing chronic pain."

"At Coeur, we strive to achieve optimal pain management with patients who are experiencing chronic pain."

The manager in the coronary care unit believes an important ethical consideration in performance evaluations is to include the employee's good qualities and give positive direction for professional growth. What ethical principle does this represent? a. Justice b. Fidelity c. Beneficence d. Nonmaleficence

Nonmaleficence

Which of the following is an example of a formal leadership position on a nursing unit? a. Staff nurse b. Unit secretary c. Unit manager d. Nursing assistant

Unit manager

Nurses entering the work force today are faced with which of the following relationships that could create organizational conflict? (Select all that apply.) a. Nurse-physician relationship b. Nurse-nurse relationship c. Nurse-patient relationship d. Nurse-chief nursing officer relationship e. Nurse-auxiliary personnel relationships

A, B, C, D, E

What patients would most likely be covered under Medicare? a. Jim, who lives on the street and has occasional infections b. Alysha, who is on social assistance and has a 5-year-old daughter with frequent ear infections c. Karen, a housewife, 45 years of age, whose husband recently abandoned the family d. Dan, who is 68 years of age and in good health

Dan, who is 68 years of age and in good health

The principle that requires nurses to uphold a professional code of ethics, to practice within the code of ethics, and to remain competent is which of the following? a. Veracity b. Autonomy c. Fidelity d. Honesty

Fidelity

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

Flowchart

The nurse manager wants to increase motivation by providing motivating factors for the nurse on the unit. What action would be appropriate to motivate the staff? a. Collaborate with the human resource/personnel department to develop on-site daycare services. b. Provide a hierarchical organizational structure. c. Implement a model of shared governance. d. Promote the development of a flexible benefits package.

Implement a model of shared governance.

The manager of a nursing unit is having difficulty working with a new graduate nurse. The new graduate nurse is excited and full of ideas she wants to try. The manager decides to journal her feelings regarding the new nurse and her feelings. What is the nurse manager practicing in this situation? a. Leadership b. Reflection c. Knowledge d. Action

Reflection

A nurse manager uses many sources of data when planning the unit's workload for the year. Which of the following data must be considered in the planning? a. Hours of operation of the unit b. Trends in acuity on the unit c. Maximum work stretch for each employee d. Weekend requirements

Trends in acuity on the unit

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.

a priority of all healthcare practitioners to improve patient care.

Mrs. Hill, aged 68, was hospitalized after a stroke. The speech therapist recommended that oral feeding be stopped because of her dysplasia. During visiting hours, Mr. Hill fed his wife some noodles. The nurse noticed this and stopped Mr. Hill from feeding his wife, telling him it was the doctor's decision. An hour later, the nurse returned and found Mr. Hill feeding his wife again. The nurse tried to stop him again. Mr. Hill refused and claimed that the clinical staff was trying to starve his wife; he also threatened to get violent with the nurse. The nurse decided to walk away and documented the event in Mrs. Hill's chart. According to Thomas' four stages of conflict, in which stage could the nurse have been more effective?

a. Frustration b. Conceptualizing c. Action d. Outcomes

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.

a. identify the root causes of problems. ANS: A

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. not be discussed until the formal performance evaluation.

a. include a plan to correct them and to prevent future occurrences. ANS: A

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

b. Assigning ANS: B

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.

b. gossip and making negative comments about absent team members. ANS: B

A nurse educator is giving a workshop on conflict. During the sessions, he makes various statements regarding conflict. All of the statements are true except: a. conflict can decrease creativity, thus acting as a deterrent for the development of new ideas. b. horizontal violence involves those with similar status but little power in the larger context. c. interprofessional collaboration reduces unresolved conflicts. d. all conflicts involve some level of disagreement.

conflict can decrease creativity, thus acting as a deterrent for the development of new ideas.

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.

d. a behaviorally anchored rating scale. ANS: D

With revenue reductions and cost-saving measures, the number of managers has been reduced, this has increased the number of team leaders supervised by managers by as many as three. This change may result in: a. decreased patient satisfaction. b. increased efficiency in costs. c. a more positive perception of managers. d. little change to manager-staff relationships.

decreased patient satisfaction.

At Orangetown Hospital, the nursing department is developing a mission statement for nursing. What would be a suitable mission statement? a. "Nursing provides services for patients admitted to Orangetown Hospital." b. "To participate fully in the professional services offered by Orangetown Hospital." c. "To lead by the lamp; services for seniors." d. "At Orangetown, the nursing department provides caring services that recognize the diversity of clients and promote optimal health with clients through partnership, education, and interprofessional collaboration."

"At Orangetown, the nursing department provides caring services that recognize the diversity of clients and promote optimal health with clients through partnership, education, and interprofessional collaboration."

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."

"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?'"

In a job interview for a staff position, which of the following indicates your knowledge of patient safety? a. "Will I be able to get overtime hours on your unit?" b. "If there is an opportunity to work extra shifts, I would really like that." c. "Is there a strategy in place to reduce the number of overtime hours on the unit?" d. "I see no reason why I wouldn't be able to work overtime."

"Is there a strategy in place to reduce the number of overtime hours on the unit?"

Sarah, RN, is one of your most enthusiastic staff members and has been to a workshop on preparing educational materials for patients. On the basis of this workshop, she would like to develop an information website for patients who are being admitted to the ward. An appropriate response to Sarah's suggestion would be: a. "That is a great suggestion, but we have no resources for such an expensive undertaking right now." b. "Perhaps you can keep that in mind as we redesign our charting system." c. "We have too many seniors as patients, and you know that they don't use technology." d. "There is a great group here that meets to look at technology pilots. Let's see if you can join them and discuss your idea further."

"There is a great group here that meets to look at technology pilots. Let's see if you can join them and discuss your idea further."

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

A nurturing and receptive environment

As a nurse manager in a for-profit hospital, you are interested in promoting teaching programs for physicians, because evidence suggests that hospitals with teaching programs tend to promote better care for patients. Your administration indicates that it cannot support your ideas or proposal because of: (Select all that apply.) a. increased salary costs. b. duplication of tests and procedures. c. graduate medical education. d. potential damage to reputation through learner error.

A, B, C

Your organization has made a decision to implement TCAB in your hospital. As a manager, what strategies would you use to implement TCAB? (Select all that apply.) a. Encourage recognition among staff of their knowledge of the patient-care environment. b. With staff, select small changes for consideration. c. Select only projects that have widespread impact. d. Secure external advisors to evaluate innovation. e. Present ideas based on best practices and ask staff for advice on implementation.

A, B, E

As a nurse manager and the leader of the unit, you are aware of multiple avenues for learning leadership traits. Which avenues would you pursue for learning leadership traits? (Select all that apply.) a. Attending professional conferences b. Reading books on leadership c. Joining professional organizations d. Connecting with other leaders in the organization e. Experiences from new nurses

ANS: A, B, C, D

Which of the following are examples of application of the Leadership Rounding Tool? (Select all that apply.) a. "What is working well for you during bedside reporting?" b. "What has not worked for you today?" c. "Is there someone on your team who deserves special recognition for her efforts in the implementation?" d. "Did you have a good vacation?"

ANS: A, B, C, D

The nurse manager has been asked to implement an evidence-based approach to teach ostomy patients self-management skills postoperatively. The program is to be implemented across the entire facility. What illustrates effective leadership in this situation? The training modules are left in the staff room for times when staff are available. b. The current approach is continued because it is also evidence-based and is more familiar to staff. c. You decide to implement the approach at a later date because of feedback from the RNs that the new approach takes too much time. d. An RN who is already familiar with the new approach of volunteers to take the lead in mentoring and teaching others how to implement it.

An RN who is already familiar with the new approach of volunteers to take the lead in mentoring and teaching others how to implement it.

A new graduate nurse has accepted a position in an intensive care unit. The nurse is assigned a preceptor with several years of experience. The new nurse also notices the other staff seek this nurse out for answers to questions and as a resource to the unit. What does the new nurse consider the role of the mentor nurse? a. A formal leader b. A positional leader c. An official leader d. An informal leader

An informal leader

Which of the following exemplifies the predominant conflict management style of nurse managers? a. Elizabeth, the head nurse on neurology, finds that Tom, the RN nurse on nights, is irritable in relation to any suggestions or new ideas, and so she comes in to work after Tom leaves the unit. b. The technology committee has recommended a clinical system for implementation on the nursing unit. Staff is anxious about the change. Tim, the head nurse, asks staff for ideas on how to meet the technology goals and to meet staff needs. c. During management meetings, George, the head nurse on nephrology, dominates meetings and decisions. Lee, the head nurse on the cardiac step-down unit, begins to miss the management meetings. d. Ann, RN, asks her head nurse if she can go on the permanent evening shift. The head nurse, Rajib, agrees, as long as Ann agrees to be involved in assisting to mentor evening staff in the use of the new clinical information system.

Ann, RN, asks her head nurse if she can go on the permanent evening shift. The head nurse, Rajib, agrees, as long as Ann agrees to be involved in assisting to mentor evening staff in the use of the new clinical information system.

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

Applying best research evidence to care of patients

A grievance brought by a staff nurse against the unit manager requires mediation. At the first mediation session, the staff nurse repeatedly calls the unit manager's actions unfair, and the unit manager continues to reiterate the reasons for the actions. What would be the best course of action at this time? a. Send the two disputants away to reach their own resolution. b. Involve another staff nurse in the discussion for clarity issues. c. Ask each party to examine their own motives and issues in the conflict. d. Continue to listen as the parties repeat their thoughts and feelings about the conflict.

Ask each party to examine their own motives and issues in the conflict.

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? a. Authority b. Responsibility c. Communication of conflict d. Autonomy

Authority

Which ethical principle is primarily involved in informed consent? a. Veracity b. Autonomy c. Beneficence d. Nonmaleficence

Autonomy

A patient refuses a simple procedure that you believe is in the patient's best interest. What two ethical principles are in conflict in this situation? a. Fidelity and justice b. Veracity and fidelity c. Autonomy and beneficence d. Paternalism and respect for others

Autonomy and beneficence

To project staffing needs and to avoid understaffing, it is important that nurse managers consider which of the following? a. Maximum productive hours b. Average non-productive hours c. Minimum benefit hours d. Maximum vacation time

Average non-productive hours

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.

B, C, D

In keeping with standards of The Joint Commission (TJC), the nurse manager organizes an orientation for new staff members. As part of the orientation, the nurse manager reviews the employee handbook. What is the basis that binds employers to statements in the employee handbook? a. Under the doctrine of apparent agency b. Under the doctrine of respondent agency c. Based on the employee's or the employer's expectations d. Based on the theory that the handbook creates an explicit contract

Based on the employee's or the employer's expectations

John is a circulating nurse in the operating room. He is usually assigned to general surgery, but on this day he is assigned to the orthopedic room. He is unfamiliar with the routines and studies the doctor's preference cards before each patient. The fourth patient comes into the room and John prepares a site for a biopsy using a Betadine solution. The surgeon prefers another solution. He notices what John has done and immediately corrects him by rudely insulting John. What is the appropriate approach to conflict resolution in this example? a. Collaboration b. Compromising c. Avoiding d. Withdraw

Compromising

Two nurses on a psychiatric unit come from different backgrounds and have graduated from different universities. They are given a set of new orders from the unit manager. Each nurse displays different emotions in response to the orders. Nurse A indicates that the new orders include too many changes; Nurse B disagrees and verbally indicates why. This step in the process is which of the following in Thomas' stages of conflict? a. Frustration b. Conceptualization c. Action d. Outcomes

Conceptualization

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

Conducting an interactive educational workshop

The manager of a unit is finding it difficult to work with a new graduate nurse. The new nurse has many ideas; however, his manner of presenting them irritates the manager. After reflection and discussion with others, the manager recognizes that she feels threatened by his behavior. She comes to understand that the new nurse is trying to establish his own role on the unit; is not trying to challenge her; and needs guidance, coaching, and affirmation. What is the nurse manager demonstrating in this situation? a. A positive self-concept b. Deepening self-awareness c. Leadership d. Acquiescence

Deepening self-awareness

A staff nurse has been recently promoted to unit manager. During the time on the unit, the nurse formed a strong social network among staff, has promoted the development of relationships between staff and workers in other areas of the organization, and has formed relationships that generate ideas from patient organizations and the local nursing education program. According to complexity theory, what principle is being engaged? a. Empowerment b. Systematic thinking c. Development of networks d. Bottom-up interactions

Development of networks

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.

EBP is generally recognized across disciplines and by policymakers as state-of- the-art clinical practice.

At the end of a shift, the charge nurse shares with the new nurse she had done an excellent job with a difficult patient that day. The new nurse was upset by the way the family of the patient had treated her. She shared her feeling with the charge nurse. The charge nurse offered to change the assignment the following day. What is the charge nurse displaying? a. Emotional intelligence b. Comportment c. Compassion d. Management of conflict

Emotional intelligence

Excellent leaders need to have or develop the skills of empathy and expressiveness when dealing with others in the workplace. This is also known as understanding and managing own feelings and emotions as well as discerning the emotions of others. What is this an example of required by good leaders? a. Social awareness b. Self-awareness c. Emotional intelligence d. Intellectual ability

Emotional intelligence

A nurse manager of a 20-bed medical unit finds that 80% of the patients are older adults. She is asked to assess and adapt the unit to better meet the unique needs of the older adult patient. Using complexity principles, what would be the best approach to take for implementation of this change? a. Leverage the hierarchical management position to get unit staff involved in assessment and planning. b. Engage involved staff at all levels in the decision-making process. c. Focus the assessment on the unit and omit the hospital and community environment. d. Hire a geriatric specialist to oversee and control the project.

Engage involved staff at all levels in the decision-making process.

As a nurse manager, you are a leader in health care and on the unit you manage. Looking at the larger picture of health care and patient environment on the unit, what is your primary role when evaluating the care provided on your nursing unit? a. Focus on cost outcomes. b. Assess staff for contentment on unit. c. Ensure quality patient care on unit. d. Provide education to the staff of the unit.

Ensure quality patient care on unit.

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

Establishing a journal club

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.

Evaluate the quality of the research against the standards for that type of research.

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

Evaluation

After assessing an older adult patient in long-term care who has been slowly deteriorating for weeks, the nurse manager calls the family and asks them to come in, as the patient is dying. What is the most likely basis for the nurse manager's request? a. An established clinical pathway b. Confirmatory scientific evidence c. Unit protocol d. Experience

Experience

The manager of a surgical area has a vision for the future that requires the addition of RN assistants or unlicensed persons to feed, bathe, and ambulate patients. The RNs on the staff have always practiced in a primary nursing-delivery system and are very resistant to this idea. What would be the best initial strategy for implementation of this change? a. Exploring the values and feelings of the RN group in relationship to this change b. Leaving the RNs alone for a time so they can think about the change before it is implemented c. Dropping the idea and trying for the change in a year or so when some of the present RNs have retired d. Hiring the assistants and allowing the RNs to see what good additions they are

Exploring the values and feelings of the RN group in relationship to this change

The chief nursing officer has asked the staff development coordinator to facilitate the development of a clinical competency program for the facility. While making rounds on the units, the staff development coordinator overhears RN staff complaining that they feel it is insulting to be required to participate in a competency program. What behavior by the staff development coordinator is most appropriate in this situation? a. Disregard staff concerns and continue with development of the program. b. Inform the nurses that this program is a requirement for JCAHO accreditation. c. Schedule a meeting with the chief nurse executive to apprise her of the situation. d. Facilitate a meeting so nurses can articulate their values and concerns about a competency program.

Facilitate a meeting so nurses can articulate their values and concerns about a competency program.

A busy neurologic ICU and step-down unit most likely would use which patient-classification system? a. Factor evaluation b. Prototype evaluation c. Hybrid system d. AHRQ system

Factor evaluation

You are a nurse manager in a facility that is part of a national system of specialized hospitals that provide services to children and that is funded and managed through a religious charity organization. This system emphasizes compassionate, faith-based care. What level of consolidated system is represented in this example? a. First level b. Second level c. Fourth level d. Fifth level

Fifth level

A family is keeping vigil at a critically ill patient's bedside. The nurse approaches the unit manager with concern over the family dynamics for the patient concerned there are patient-family conflicts based on patient's wishes. The nurse suggests that the patient's provider may need to discuss the treatment plan with the family. The unit manager states he will arrange a discussion with the patient's provider and ask the nurse to support the provider's decisions. What is the role of the nurse in this situation? a. Leadership b. Management c. Follower d. Evidence-based

Follower

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

Formation of a network of individuals doing research and/or interested in research utilization

In developing leadership skills, one should focus on authentic leadership. The theory of authentic leadership focuses on various factors. What is the top priority in development of authentic leadership? a. Honest relationships b. Organizational task c. Accomplishment of goals d. Exploring others

Honest relationships

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.

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.

What exemplifies the predominant style of conflict management for staff nurses? a. Sarah and Jonas, two RNs, disagree about the best approach to assisting a family that has complex needs. They decide that they will consult with family and together will decide what is best. b. Jennifer needs to switch a shift to attend a family function. She arranges to trade with Nancy, who wants a day off next to a 3-day break. c. Lindsay asks Melody to stay late for the third day in a row. Melody refuses, stating that she has already helped out for 2 days by staying late for Lindsay. d. Lara asks Stacey to switch shifts with her because Lara wants to attend a concert. Stacey would prefer not to but does to enable Lara, who is new in town, to be with her friends. ANS: D

Lara asks Stacey to switch shifts with her because Lara wants to attend a concert. Stacey would prefer not to but does to enable Lara, who is new in town, to be with her friends.

The manager calls the staff together to assess a situation in which the family of a seriously ill patient is anxious and is absorbing a great deal of staff time in consultation, discussion, and questioning of treatment decisions. Staff members are becoming distanced from the family. After inviting the concerns of staff, the manager explains that the organization values patient-centered care and that evidence supports that acting as an advocate and a listener is helpful to families. The manager asks the staff for ideas and strategies that are effectively patient-centered in dealing with families in similar situations. What is the role of the nurse manager in this situation? a. Leadership b. Management c. Follower d. Visionary

Leadership

The charge nurse walks into Mr. Smith's room and finds him yelling at the LPN. He is obviously very upset. The charge nurse determines that he has not slept for three nights because of unrelieved pain levels. The LPN is very upset and calls Mr. Smith an "ugly, old man." The charge nurse acknowledges the LPN's feelings and concerns and then suggests that Mr. Smith's behavior was aggressive but was related to lack of sleep and to pain. The charge nurse asks, "Can you, together with Mr. Smith, determine triggers for the pain and effective approaches to controlling his pain?" This situation is an example of what? a. Lack of empathy and understanding for Miss Jones b. Concern with placating Mr. Smith c. Leadership behavior d. Management behavior

Leadership behavior

To engage your staff in awareness of their current practice and how it is affirmed or not by evidence, you plan a short series of learning presentations on evidence and use of heparin and saline to maintain IV patency. You meet with the educator to plan out the goals for each session with the overall purpose of increasing knowledge and awareness of staff in readiness to consider questions related to the IV practice. This learning approach is an example of which change management approach? a. Linear b. First-order c. Facilitative d. Integrative

Linear

A family is keeping vigil at a critically ill patient's bedside. Distant family members call the unit continuously asking for updates and expressing concern. The nurse speaks with the distant family members and states she is referring them to the hospital social worker, whose role is to work with family in this situation. What role is the nurse assuming through this action? a. Manager b. Leader c. Follower d. Laissez-faire

Manager

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

Matching the appraisal tool to the type of evidence

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.

NANDA.

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

NDNQI

Kala, a unit manager, in discussing a role the CEO would like her to perform, makes the following statement, "I will sit on the hospital task force on improving morale if you send me to the hospital's leadership training classes next week, so I can further develop my skills and thus be more effective." Which of the following conflict management styles is Kala using? a. Collaborating b. Avoiding c. Negotiating d. Accommodating

Negotiating

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.

Never Events.

The manager is using self-reflection to gain insight into improving the leadership skills. By using self-awareness what does a leader develop? a. New knowledge b. Personal growth c. Improved self esteem d. Management skills

New knowledge

What is an example of an HMO? a. Nurse practitioners are paid promptly at discounted fees for each service rendered at a women's health clinic. b. Physicians in a large urban center are reimbursed for visits made to their clients. c. Physicians are paid for each service delivered to enrolled patients through a prepaid plan. d. Patients pay fixed annual fees for ambulatory care services, regardless of actual utilization of health services.

Patients pay fixed annual fees for ambulatory care services, regardless of actual utilization of health services.

The case method of care delivery could be best justified in which of the following scenarios? a. Stable patient population with long-term care and family needs b. Acute care surgical unit with predictable postsurgical outcomes and many technical procedures c. Pediatric intensive care unit that heavily involves families as well as patients d. Home healthcare environment with patients at varying levels of acuity

Pediatric intensive care unit that heavily involves families as well as patients

A staff nurse, who was fired for reporting patient abuse to the appropriate state agency, files a whistleblower lawsuit against the former employer. What reason would the court provide to uphold a valid whistleblower suit claiming retaliation by the nurse? a. Previously reported the complaint, in writing, to hospital administration. b. Threatened to give full details of the patient abuse to local media sources. c. Was discharged after three unsuccessful attempts at progressive discipline had failed. d. Had organized, before filing the complaint, a work stoppage action by fellow employees.

Previously reported the complaint, in writing, to hospital administration.

In a small rural nursing home, a director of nursing decides, because of a shortage of nurses, to implement a partnership model to help with basic tasks that comply with state rules regarding delegation. What type of design constitutes a partnership care delivery model? a. RN and LPN/LVN b. RN and RN c. RN and medication assistants d. RN and certified nurses' aides

RN and medication assistants

In what situations would you expect low morale and frustration? a. Statement of philosophy indicates "We value our staff." When staff members leave, careful evaluation is done to determine whether staff should be replaced by full- or part-time employees. b. Practices include annual staff recognition celebrations. During times of change, staff members are actively included in issue identification and solution finding. c. Recruitment ads promise opportunities for advancement for everyone. Promotions are given only to individuals with long-standing service and entrenched relationships. d. The vision indicates that there is strong commitment to lead in research. The organization has tried to implement a strong campaign to attract leading nurse researchers but has experienced difficulty in doing so.

Recruitment ads promise opportunities for advancement for everyone. Promotions are given only to individuals with long-standing service and entrenched relationships.

A charge nurse on a busy 40-bed medical/surgical unit is approached by a family member who begins to complain loudly about the quality of care his mother is receiving. His behavior is so disruptive that it is overheard by staff, physicians, and other visitors. The family member leaves the unit abruptly, and the nurse is left feeling frustrated. Which behavior by the charge nurse best illustrates refined leadership skills in an emotionally intelligent practitioner? a. Reflect to gain insight into how the situation could be handled differently in the future. b. Try to catch up with the angry family member to resolve the concern. c. Discuss the concern with the patient after the family member has left. d. Notify nursing administration of the situation.

Reflect to gain insight into how the situation could be handled differently in the future.

A staff nurse is taking leadership classes in an advanced degree program as the nurse wants to become a manager. The instructor requires the students to create a journal and make notes of their feelings when they experience conflicts at work over the next few weeks. The assignment calls for the use of reflection. What is the purpose of this assignment? a. Log of conflicts which occur b. Reflection for self-awareness in conflict situations c. Assess the students conflict management skills d. Analysis of student lead conflicts

Reflection for self-awareness in conflict situations

Because of rapid turnover and the ongoing hiring of new graduates, the skill levels of staff in a busy CCU are varied. Senior staff are becoming burned out with the need to provide mentorship and guidance to new staff. As the manager, you propose the addition of a nurse in advanced practice to provide consultation and education for staff. What is this position considered? a. Hierarchical position b. Ancillary c. Line position d. Staff position

Staff position

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.

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.

A group of patients with early Alzheimer disease and their spouses approach you regarding help with the establishment of a local Alzheimer Society for the support and education of affected individuals and their families. As a manager in an ambulatory care clinic, what suggestion or advice would you offer this group? a. Self-help groups are, by nature, directed, funded, and led by those requiring help, and therefore, the patients and families should need no help from your clinic. b. Your healthcare organization would be pleased to help as long as your organization financially takes over responsibility for direction, leadership, and management. c. Through partnership, you will provide supports, if possible, that the patients and spouses themselves identify as necessary in the establishment of the group. d. The services that the patients and spouses are proposing are likely being offered somewhere else already.

Through partnership, you will provide supports, if possible, that the patients and spouses themselves identify as necessary in the establishment of the group.

The parents of a toddler who dies after being brought to the ER launch a lawsuit, claiming that the failure of nurses to pursue concerns related to their son's deteriorating condition contributed to his death. How is senior nurse executive named in the suit? a. As a global respondent b. Under the doctrine of respondeat superior c. As a frivolous action d. Under the element of causation

Under the doctrine of respondeat superior

As a new manager, you are shocked to learn that your unit is still using heparin in heparin locks. You are aware of evidence related to this practice and want to change this practice as quickly as possible on your unit. You are in which stage of Lewin's stages of change? a. Unfreezing b. Experiencing the change c. Moving d. Refreezing

Unfreezing

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

Workshop for surgical nurses that involves discussion of case studies and application of evidence

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.

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.

As a nurse manager, you have been offered a position at a Veterans Administration hospital. In accepting the position, it is important for you to understand that Veterans hospitals provide: a. primary care and are privately funded. b. a range of services and are responsible to government and taxpayers. c. secondary care only and are publicly administered and funded. d. services to Veterans under an HMO.

a range of services and are responsible to government and taxpayers.

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.

a tendency to concentrate decision making during economic downturns at the top administrative level.

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.

a tradition of obedience to authority.

Scheduling is a function of implementing the staffing plan by assigning unit personnel to work specific hours and specific days of the week. To retain nursing staff, the nurse manager must incorporate into the schedule plan: a. all weekends off. b. all holidays off. c. a variety of scheduling options. d. rotating shifts.

a variety of scheduling options.

Clinical incompetence is one of the more serious problems 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? (Select all that apply.) 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 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." ANS: A, B, C, D

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?"

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?" ANS: A

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

a. An autocratic perspective ANS: A

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

a. Assessment/Data collection ANS: A

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"

a. Celebrating the successes of others c. Imagining possibilities d. Establishing a sense of "being in this together" ANS: A, C, D

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 ANS: A

An individual in a wheelchair is applying for the position of receptionist in an outpatient clinic. What does the nurse manager understand based on The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requirements for employers? a. Make reasonable accommodations for persons who are disabled. b. Allow modified job expectations for persons recovering from alcoholism. c. Hire disabled individuals before hiring other qualified, non-disabled persons. d. Treat, for purposes of employment, homosexuals and bisexuals as disabled.

a. Make reasonable accommodations for persons who are disabled.

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.

a. The task and the outcome are relatively simple and defined. ANS: A

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.

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. ANS: A

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.

a. accountable. ANS: A

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.

a. can create a form of synergism in which the outcome is greater than the sum of the individual performances. ANS: A

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.

a. clarity in roles and valuing of contributions. ANS: A

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.

a. commitment. ANS: A

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.

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.

One of your staff nurses asks for your advice because a patient refuses to sign a consent for surgery. The patient says that he won't sign because he doesn't understand the nature of the surgery. You advise that: (Select all that apply.) a. consent must not be coerced. b. the patient has a right to choose not to consent. c. the patient must sign the consent because the doctor wants him to sign. d. witnessing a consent is related only to the voluntary nature of the signature.

a. consent must not be coerced. b. the patient has a right to choose not to consent. d. witnessing a consent is related only to the voluntary nature of the signature.

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. ANS: A

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. ANS: A

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.

a. finding well-qualified candidates who can function well within your particular work culture. ANS: A

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.

a. forceps left in an abdominal cavity. b. patient fall, with injury. d. administration of morphine overdose. e. death of patient related to postpartum hemorrhage.

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.

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. ANS: A, B, C

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.

a. if there are no agreements, each member will make up rules about how to handle disagreements and relationships. ANS: A

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.

a. involve the rehab staff in the decision. ANS: A

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.

a. involves decisions to manipulate situations to gain advantage over another. ANS: A

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.

a. maintain a relaxed and professional manner. c. allow the employee to express opinions orally and in writing. ANS: A, C

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.

a. maintenance of anecdotal notes over the entire evaluation period. ANS: A

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. ANS: A

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.

a. organizational mission, philosophy, and position requirements. ANS: A

With regard to nursing practice, nurse managers are held responsible for: (Select all that apply.) a. practicing within legal guidelines established under state law and nurse practice acts. b. ensuring that nursing staff under their supervision are currently licensed to practice. c. referring all errors in nursing judgment to state discipline boards. d. ensuring that physicians are properly licensed to provide care on patient care units.

a. practicing within legal guidelines established under state law and nurse practice acts. b. ensuring that nursing staff under their supervision are currently licensed to practice.

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.

a. review the position description and performance expectations for the opening. ANS: A

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.

a. role acquisition. ANS: A

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.

a. uses various models to guide the process based on the circumstances of the situation. ANS: A

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.

a. work together in a respectful, civil manner. ANS: A

Healthcare organization XYZ provides women's health services on an inpatient basis (average stay of less than 30 days). This facility would likely be considered: a. primary care, specialized. b. tertiary care, long-term. c. acute care, specialized. d. public care, specialized.

acute care, specialized.

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.

amplifying the influence of individuals.

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.

an awareness of how organizational culture is reflected in organizational structure.

You are the nurse manager for a not-for-profit health service for the homeless and for drug users in an impoverished neighborhood. As the manager, your concern about sustainability is related to: a. the possibility of violence. b. an increase in prescription drugs available for abuse. c. decisions of the public board. d. an increase in uncompensated care events.

an increase in uncompensated care events.

In the past year, you have noticed an increase in patient falls on your unit. In reading studies related to staffing and patient outcomes, you realize that you will need to plan for: a. higher patient care hours. b. safer facilities. c. institution of a patient-classification system. d. an increased number of RN positions.

an increased number of RN positions.

Sarah is a clinical nurse educator in the dialysis unit at Pines Health Center and provides education, consultation, and training support. Sarah has: a. direct responsibility for patient care. b. direct accountability for patient outcomes. c. an authority relationship to staff. d. an influence over patient outcomes.

an influence over patient outcomes.

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.

articulate practice recommendations developed from synthesis and review of evidence.

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.

autonomy.

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

b. A combination of tools ANS: B

Which of the following indicates safe delegation? two staff, and the replacement is inexperienced. 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.

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. ANS: B

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. ANS: B

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.

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. ANS: B

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 ANS: B

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? a. Employee morale is at a high level. b. Patient care will be jeopardized and possibility below standards. c. Existing staff have experienced little effect from the absenteeism. d. Cost for the unit remains the same when new staff are hired.

b. Patient care will be jeopardized and possibility below standards. ANS: B

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.

b. The effectiveness of appraisal is enhanced by a combination of methods and effective communication skills. ANS: B

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. ANS: B

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.

b. a bias related to recent events. ANS: B

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.

b. actively listen to each other. ANS: B

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: 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.

b. ask Evelyn if she has worked with inhalers before and to describe what she knows about them. ANS: B

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.

b. authority. ANS: B

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.

b. can be used to support and justify fairness in termination discussions. ANS: B

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.

b. crisis situations. ANS: B

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.

b. effective communication in the workplace. ANS: B

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.

b. failure to follow-through. ANS: B

Before terminating an employee, a nurse manager must: a. be an expert in all legal aspects of termination and discipline practices. b. follow 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. follow the organization's specific policies for addressing disciplinary problems and termination. ANS: B

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.

b. learning goals, or management by objectives. ANS: B

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.

b. passive delegation. ANS: B

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.

b. professional who delegates. ANS: B

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.

b. role ambiguity. ANS: B

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.

b. shared values, flexibility, and a human-capital focus. ANS: B

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. ANS: B

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.

b. the complexity of care required by patients. ANS: B

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.

b. the development level of the followers and the behavior based on the situation. ANS: B

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.

b. the policy made decisions for other departments in the company. ANS: B

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.

b. use a decision-making tool to evaluate brands. ANS: B

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.

b. whether mentoring is included in the position description. ANS: B

To effectively delegate in a team nursing environment, the RN team leader must be familiar with the legal and organizational roles of each group of personnel and must: a. be able to effectively communicate with patients. b. build relationships with physicians. c. be able to adapt to daily changes in staffing. d. adapt in communicating information to her supervisor.

be able to adapt to daily changes in staffing.

A hospital is working toward becoming a Magnet® hospital. The chief nursing officer is aware that professional nursing departments in Magnet® hospitals will: a. not be directed by nurses. b. be virtual organizations. c. be designed to maintain nursing standards of practice. d. be entitled to have client care departments.

be designed to maintain nursing standards of practice.

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.

be presenting different generational values and attitudes than the head nurse.

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.

benchmarking.

Taylor Hospital has well-defined organizational units that provide maintenance, financial services, care for cardiac patients, care for surgical patients, and so on. The organizational chart indicates that surgical units report to a surgical manager and all nursing units report to a vice president of nursing; financial services to an accountant and then to a business executive; and so on. The primary disadvantage of this organizational structure is: a. breakdown in function and communication across specialties. b. lack of congruence in culture and organizational values. c. highly centralized decision making and authority. d. wide span of control.

breakdown in function and communication across specialties.

As a nurse manager, you have been asked to be part of a design team for health services that have vertical integration. In planning for these services, your team will design a proposal that will: a. cluster like services together, such as outpatient clinics for the care of children with various developmental and medical needs. b. plan for the smooth transition of patients from the emergency services department to other units in the hospital. c. ensure that funding follows the patient from acute care to long-term care services. d. bring together acute care, ambulatory, home care, and palliative care services for the management of patients diagnosed with cancer.

bring together acute care, ambulatory, home care, and palliative care services for the management of patients diagnosed with cancer.

The head nurse and a staff nurse are having a conflict over how to use and apply a new procedure for dressings in the medical/surgical area. The staff nurse wishes to use the new procedure based on newly released nursing research. The head nurse wishes to use a protocol that has been used in the department for a number of years. The head nurse later makes comments to other staff on her unit about the credibility of the staff nurse. This behavior is associated with: a. lateral violence. b. horizontal violence. c. confrontation. d. bullying.

bullying.

In the Unity Healthcare organization, decisions, including those at the unit level, are made by a group of senior executives. Rules for employees are clear, and nursing care is delineated by procedures and protocols. This exemplifies: a. transformational leadership. b. transactional leadership. c. bureaucratic organization. d. Chaos theory.

bureaucratic organization.

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."

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

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."

c. "I will be in contact with all candidates by telephone by next Friday. It has been a pleasure to meet you." ANS: C

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."

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?" ANS: C

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.

c. Assess the amount of guidance and support needed for the nursing care of the patient. ANS: C

Incivility is a disruptive behavior or communication that creates a negative environment and interferes with quality patient care and safety. The manager can implement the following steps that help to alleviate uncivil behavior on a unit. (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 a. A, B, C, D b. B, A, C, D c. C, B, A, D d. C, A, B, D

c. C, B, A, D ANS: C

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 ANS: C

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 ANS: C

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

c. Optimizing model ANS: C

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. ANS: C

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.

c. When the nurse comes out of the room, tell the nurse specifically what you appreciated about the care that was provided. ANS: C

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.

c. accurate identification of the problem. ANS: C

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.

c. active delegation. ANS: C

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.

c. assignment. ANS: C

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. ANS: C

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.

c. commitment. ANS: C

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.

c. consists of thoughts, ideas, opinions, emotions, and feelings. ANS: C

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.

c. decision making is a goal-directed effort; problem solving is focused on solving an immediate problem. ANS: C

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.

c. dualism. ANS: C

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.

c. fear that one can't handle the consequences. ANS: C

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.

c. generate as many solutions as possible. ANS: C

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.

c. group size is neither too small nor too large. ANS: C

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.

c. high-level cognitive process that includes creativity, problem solving, and decision making. ANS: C

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.

c. matching tasks with qualified persons. ANS: C

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.

c. outlines her rationale for reduction of RN coverage on nights to the Nursing Practice Committee after serious patient injury. ANS: C

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. ANS: C

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.

c. staff members are very committed to the team and have strong opinions. ANS: C

In comparing team and functional models of care, a nurse manager favors the team model. In particular, she finds that the team model: a. can be effective in recognizing individual strengths and backgrounds of staff. b. promotes autonomy and independence for the RN. c. avoids conflict because of role clarity. d. is efficient in delivering care to a large group of patients, utilizing a staffing mix.

can be effective in recognizing individual strengths and backgrounds of staff.

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.

chart audit.

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.

client satisfaction with the healthcare organization.

The relief charge nurse has assigned a newly licensed baccalaureate-prepared nurse to be one of the team leaders for the 3-11 shift. In making this decision, the charge nurse has overlooked this nurse's: a. clinical expertise. b. leadership ability. c. communication style. d. conflict-resolution skills.

clinical expertise.

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 schoolchildren. This is an example of: a. community development. b. collective bargaining. c. collective action. d. shared governance.

collective action.

A factor evaluation system: a. utilizes financial data to determine number of staff-to-patient ratios. b. utilizes DRGs to determine acuity on a unit. c. combines interventions and time required for interventions to determine levels of care required. d. combines financial resources and nursing interventions to determine patient contact hours.

combines interventions and time required for interventions to determine levels of care required.

In evaluating weekend mortality rates, the head nurse on the cardiac unit is surprised to find that they are higher than on weekdays. In exploring the reasons for this apparent anomaly, the head nurse focuses on: a. availability of diagnostic personnel. b. availability of physicians. c. communication with on-call providers. d. acuity level of patients.

communication with on-call providers.

A particular classification system assigns revenue according to the functional capacity of patients and the progression of patients during their stay in rehabilitation units. More independent patient activities, such as prompted voiding, require higher staff utilization than dependent activities but do not result in increased staff resources. This is an example of:

concern related to the validity of classification systems.

Complex change situations require that the change leader promote ongoing visioning among staff members. One strategy is to: a. consciously evaluate invisible mental models. b. allow for individual outcomes. c. encourage cooperative activities. d. operate between order and disorder.

consciously evaluate invisible mental models.

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.

consider whether patients' families see this as necessary for the well-being of family members.

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.

consider your increased vulnerability under the terms of your employment.

As the unit manager, you spend a day performing direct patient care and work with a new system that is designed to capture patient documentation at the bedside. During discussions with staff while giving care, you discover that the number of screens that need to be opened during documentation makes charting more complex and time consuming than traditional manual charting approaches. On the basis of this feedback, you: a. assume that the system is doing what it needs to do. b. provide reassurance to staff that the unit has achieved its goals in implementation of the system. c. ask some of the staff if they have had similar experiences with the system. d. consult chart audit data and end user consultation reports to determine if errors and problems are occurring.

consult chart audit data and end user consultation reports to determine if errors and problems are occurring.

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.

create a professional practice environment.

A merger has occurred between a hospital and a local home health agency, creating new roles for the nursing staff in both agencies. The nurse managers of both systems begin to evaluate and revise patient care processes and systems. With the merger, the healthcare organization's changes are: a. creating more jobs in the community for registered nurses. b. resulting in an overall loss of jobs for registered nurses. c. controlled by the federal and state governments. d. controlled by the insurance agency.

creating more jobs in the community for registered nurses.

A nursing instructor is teaching a class on conflict and conflict resolution. She relates to the class that conflict in an organization is important, and that an optimal level of conflict will generate: a. creativity, a problem-solving atmosphere, a weak team spirit, and motivation of its workers. b. creativity, a staid atmosphere, a weak team spirit, and motivation of its workers. c. creativity, a problem-solving atmosphere, a strong team spirit, and motivation for its workers. d. a bureaucratic atmosphere, a strong team spirit, and motivation for its workers.

creativity, a problem-solving atmosphere, a strong team spirit, and motivation for its workers.

The home health agency hired an expert in financial management to evaluate and propose a plan for reversing growing expenses and decreasing revenues. The expert is well respected, both personally and professionally, by members living in this small community. To be effective, staff will need to perceive this change agent as: a. trusted, quiet. b. flexible, informal. c. credible, enthusiastic d. communicative, personable.

credible, enthusiastic

You are the nurse manager of a nursing service organization that provides around-the-clock care to clients in their homes. To achieve maximum reimbursement for a client who is recovering from a hip replacement, the nursing staff most likely will follow the nursing care guidelines presented in the: a. nursing care plan. b. physician's orders. c. critical pathway. d. clinical practice guidelines.

critical pathway.

One means of ensuring that the nurses floated to other patient care areas in healthcare organizations are qualified to work in the areas they are floated is: a. employing additional staff to assist with orientation processes. b. cross-educating staff members to other areas of the institution. c. transferring patients to units where the staffing pattern is optimal. d. orienting staff members to all patient care areas as part of their general orientation to the institution.

cross-educating staff members to other areas of the institution.

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."

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

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?"

d. "What happened to bring on this disagreement today?" ANS: D

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

d. A set of barriers that may occur between sender and receiver ANS: D

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.

d. Advise her that you are available if she needs you. ANS: D

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.

d. All listed are appropriate to consider. ANS: D

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

d. Coaching ANS: D

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

d. Committing to resolution ANS: D

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.

d. Cultivate a desire to learn about the other person. ANS: D

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.

d. Do nothing. ANS: D

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. ANS: D

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

d. Incorrect problem identification ANS: D

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.

d. Patient care may suffer because attention and energy is being diverted toward the unit relationships. ANS: D

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.

d. Post a blank schedule, and ask staff members to fill in their times by a given date. ANS: D

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 ANS: D

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.

d. a committed orientation and training program. ANS: D

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.

d. a graphic rating scale. ANS: D

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.

d. as a group. ANS: D

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.

d. assess the risk to the client and the agency before proceeding. ANS: D

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.

d. behaviorally anchored rating scale. ANS: D

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.

d. complexity of the task and the potential for harm. ANS: D

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.

d. enables individualization of learning to the learner's needs. ANS: D

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.

d. encouraged equal participation among members. ANS: D

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.

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

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.

d. provide minimal direction and let them come to you with questions. ANS: D

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.

d. retains accountability for the outcomes of care for the patient. ANS: D

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.

d. satisficing. ANS: D

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? "As a manager, you: a. need to be aware of ADA issues." b. should check with human resources regarding chemically dependent employees and employment practices." c. check the nurse practice acts for the state in which the nurse resides." d. should realize that the nurse is a professional embarrassment and should be kept out of sight of other staff."

d. should realize that the nurse is a professional embarrassment and should be kept out of sight of other staff." ANS: D

The chief nursing officer reviews the policy about "progressive discipline process." The progressive discipline process includes which of the following? The manager: a. acts as 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. ANS: D

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.

d. team skills can be used more effectively. ANS: D

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. ANS: D

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.

d. the enduring nature of first impressions. ANS: D

"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.

d. the strengths of the individual rather than the weaknesses. ANS: D

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. ANS: D

Sarah is a nurse manager in a surgical unit. She is concerned about a conflict between Lucy (a staff nurse) and one of the maintenance personnel. Sarah explains to Lucy that unsatisfactory resolution of the conflict is typically destructive and will result in: a. decreased frustration between the maintenance worker and her. b. a good relationship with the maintenance department. c. eventual resolution of the problem without further intervention. d. decreased productivity on her part.

decreased productivity on her part.

You anticipate that your region will soon move toward an e-health record system. You begin to discuss this with your staff and are disappointed that you receive little positive response from the staff about this possibility. One staff member, in particular, seems to sum it up by saying "e-health? Won't happen in my working life! There are too many problems with it, like privacy issues." This response is most likely motivated by: a. lack of urgency regarding the need to change. b. lack of evidence to support importance of technology. c. deficits in education and experience. d. lack of organizational support for change.

deficits in education and experience.

A nurse manager questions the true difference between primary nursing and total patient care. After careful consideration of both models, the nurse manager concludes that primary nursing differs significantly from total patient care in: a. breadth of nursing knowledge and expertise required. b. intention to provide holistic nursing. c. degree of task orientation. d. levels and types of assessment.

degree of task orientation.

An example of one strategy to improve participation in the change process by staff fitting the behavioral descriptions of laggards, early majority, late majority, and rejecters is to: a. encourage teamwork. b. transfer to a different unit. c. require attendance at staff meetings. d. delegate the roles and tasks of change.

delegate the roles and tasks of change.

A new director of nursing in a small rural hospital wants to make changes from the traditional model of governance to a shared-governance model. Select the characteristic below that best describes the traditional organizational structure in which a staff nurse is assigned to carry out nursing tasks for clients but is not given the chance to provide input into forming the policies and procedures by which care is delivered or the standards by which care is evaluated: a. bureaucratic. b. decentralized. c. delegated authority and responsibility. d. delegated responsibility but no authority.

delegated responsibility but no authority.

A nurse manager must consider a number of external variables when preparing the personnel budget and projecting the unit's staffing needs. An external variable to be considered is: a. organizational staffing policies. b. staffing models. c. changes in services that will be offered. d. department of Health licensing standards.

department of Health licensing standards.

Mrs. Hill, aged 68, was hospitalized after a stroke. The speech therapist recommended that oral feeding be stopped because of her dysplasia. During visiting hours, Mr. Hill fed his wife some noodles. The nurse noticed this and stopped Mr. Hill from feeding his wife, telling him it was the doctor's decision. An hour later, the nurse returned and found Mr. Hill feeding his wife again. The nurse tried to stop him again. Mr. Hill refused and claimed that the clinical staff was trying to starve his wife; he also threatened to get violent with the nurse. The nurse decided to walk away and documented the event in Mrs. Hill's chart. The outcome as depicted by Thomas' conflict stages can be considered to be: a. compromising. b. confronting. c. constructive. d. destructive.

destructive.

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. determine levels of nurse engagement on 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.

determine levels of nurse engagement on the unit.

To reduce reliance on overtime hours, an organization develops a strategy for floating nurses during staff shortages. To maximize patient safety and reduce costs, the healthcare organization: a. develops a centralized pool of float nurses. b. assigns nurses from less busy units to ones with increased acuity levels. c. floats nurses only between units on which the nurses have been cross-trained. d. assigns float nurses to basic care only.

develops a centralized pool of float nurses.

The nurse manager frequently interacts with staff and other hospice facility employees. Communication is purposeful because the manager assesses current issues, such as specific satisfactions and dissatisfactions with the newly implemented computerized documentation system. Informally, the manager gathers available staff members to address similar learning needs. Many times, staff members are found coaching other staff about improving use of the new system. According to Senge (1990), the activities demonstrated in this example are: a. dialogue, team learning. b. resilience, personal mastery. c. shared vision, systems thinking. d. mental models, teachable moments.

dialogue, team learning.

Nurses on the dialysis unit notice that changes in labeling of fluids have meant several alarming near miss 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.

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.

While walking past a patient's room, you overhear one of the RN staff telling a patient that the patient has no right to refuse chemotherapy treatment because the family and the doctor think the treatment is the best option for the patient. This patient is 40 years of age and alert. When you meet later to discuss what you heard with the RN, it is important to: a. discuss how statute law enforces the right of the doctor, but not of families, to ensure that patients comply with recommended treatment plans. b. discuss that statute law provides for patient autonomy and refusal of treatment. c. remind the nurse to provide clearer explanations to aid in the patient's comprehension of the treatment and compliance. d. acknowledge the nurse's role in ensuring that she does not fail in her duty of care for the patient.

discuss that statute law provides for patient autonomy and refusal of treatment.

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.

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.

To reduce the incidence of falls in a skilled nursing unit, the nurse manager contacts the risk manager. Risk management is a process that attempts to identify potential hazards and: a. compensate for previous injuries. b. eliminate these risks before anyone else is harmed. c. supersede the need for staff members to file incident reports. d. discipline staff members who have been involved in previous incident reports.

eliminate these risks before anyone else is harmed.

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.

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.

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.

equipping them to practice in a rapidly changing environment.

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.

establishment of an interdisciplinary center to guide and lead the translation of research findings into practice.

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.

facilitates active staff participation in decision making related to quality nursing care.

In considering whether or not to accept a job offer as a nurse manager at a Magnet® hospital, you look at an environment that you might encounter as a head nurse at the hospital. You determine that you could expect to: a. find it difficult to recruit new staff. b. see rapid turnover of staff on your unit. c. find nurses who exemplify interest in quality care. d. find limited interest in excellence in the nursing environment.

find nurses who exemplify interest in quality care.

A nurse manager at a home healthcare service has resigned to take a position at a local ambulatory care center. She has been hired because of her expertise in TJC accreditation. To initiate the changes, the nurse manager has to be knowledgeable about the differences between a home healthcare institution and an ambulatory care center, which is a primary care institution. Primary care institutions are facilities that provide: a. rehabilitative or long-term care. b. disease-restorative care. c. first access to care. d. only outpatient services.

first access to care.

The local health department nurse manager has developed and implemented a disaster readiness plan as part of a community service. Community services: a. care for the specific needs of individual families in the community. b. focus on the treatment of community-wide problems rather than on individual health problems. c. do not include services provided by public health departments. d. provide personal health follow-up for all acute care hospitalizations.

focus on the treatment of community-wide problems rather than on individual health problems.

The chief nursing officer plans a series of staff development workshops for the nurse managers to help them deal with conflicts. The first workshop introduces the four stages of conflict, which are: a. frustration, competition, negotiation, and action. b. frustration, conceptualization, action, and outcomes. c. frustration, cooperation, collaboration, and action outcomes. d. frustration, conceptualization, negotiation, and action outcomes.

frustration, conceptualization, action, and outcomes.

The hospital administration gives approval to the chief nursing officer to hire clinical nurse specialists in staff positions rather than in administrative positions. A clinical specialist who has staff authority but no line authority typically is able to: a. function through influence. b. take complete responsibility for the care of clients. c. interview and hire staff nurses for designated nursing units. d. be granted functional authority to determine standards of nursing care and enforce them.

function through influence.

A patient complains to the charge nurse that she has no idea who "her nurse" is on any given day. "I ask one nurse for my pills and she says, 'That's not my job.' I ask the pill nurse about my lab tests and she says that I should ask another nurse." The nursing care delivery model most likely employed in this situation is: a. differentiated practice. b. team nursing. c. functional nursing. d. case management.

functional nursing.

When interviewing an applicant for an RN position, the nurse manager describes the unit's care delivery system as one in which the nursing assistants are cross-trained to perform specific tasks and the RNs complete all treatment, medication administration, and discharge teaching. The nurse applicant knows this nursing care delivery strategy to be: a. the case method. b. functional nursing. c. primary nursing. d. nurse case management.

functional nursing.

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.

identify the standard.

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.

improves patient outcomes.

With the help of a federal grant, the local school nurse has established a spreadsheet that contains relevant nursing data so that she can analyze children's health. School health programs are: a. increasingly seen as primary care sites for children. b. providing only health education programs for children and their parents. c. capable only of providing referrals for health problems to primary care providers. d. funded exclusively by local authorities.

increasingly seen as primary care sites for children.

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.

indicative that he does not clearly understand the concept of accountability.

On Unit 62, the nurses and the unit manager have been involved in shared decision making related 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.

individual expertise will be utilized to provide solutions, but that responsibility for the change is shared.

As the unit manager on the unit that is leading changes to heparin locks, you find that Elizabeth is very valuable in terms of her observations about other units and her knowledge of organizational processes, and now in discussing the new procedure with others. Elizabeth might be considered an: a. engager. b. innovator. c. informal change agent. d. informant.

informal change agent.

The oncology clinical manager and the educational coordinator asked nursing staff to complete a brief written survey to assess their attitudes and knowledge related to having used the new infusion equipment for 6 weeks. The stage of change in this situation is: a. developing awareness. b. experiencing the change. c. integrating the change. d. perceiving awareness.

integrating the change.

In transitioning to a primary nursing model, it is important for a nurse manager who enjoys a high level of control over patient care to understand that his or her decision making at the patient care level: a. is increased. b. is decreased. c. is relinquished. d. remains the same.

is decreased.

A conflict develops between an associate nurse and a primary nurse over the assessment of a patient with pulmonary edema. Based on her assessment of the patient, the associate nurse insists that it is her role to change the care plan because she is the one who has made the assessment. As the nurse manager, you clarify that: a. it is the role of the primary nurse to make alterations based on assessment data and input. b. the associate nurse is accountable and responsible while the primary nurse is off duty and therefore is able to alter the care plan. c. neither the primary nor the associate should make changes without first consulting you as the manager. d. it really does not matter who alters the nursing care plan as it depends on situation and time to do so.

it is the role of the primary nurse to make alterations based on assessment data and input.

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 the 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.

it must be evident in the outcomes of the process that staff and senior executives have partnered on the decisions.

The facilities department is experiencing some challenges and is undergoing reorganization. Because of your familiarity with systems theory, you: a. know that this challenge is their issue and that it has nothing to do with your unit. b. understand that such events are localized and do not have an impact on the organizational culture. c. know that the nature of challenges and reorganization in facilities will have an impact on other areas. d. anticipate that your prior experiences with facilities have no effect on the current situation.

know that the nature of challenges and reorganization in facilities will have an impact on other areas.

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."

knows how to "play the game."

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.

leadership experience and time to spend communicating with the new supervisor about his or her experiences.

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.

look directly at speakers and acknowledge their comments.

As the unit manager, you post the staffing plan and compliance reports. This initiative is aimed at: a. maintaining unit morale. b. complying with national requirements. c. demonstrating patient outcomes. d. inviting staff participation in decision making.

maintaining unit morale.

A nursing informatics specialist hired by Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance System (a form of third-party payers benefit package for a prepaid fee that uses specific standards to approve a period of time for the use of inpatient and community health services) is participating in: a. critical pathways. b. healthcare networks. c. health maintenance organizations. d. managed care.

managed care.

During a staff shortage, you hire an RN from a temporary agency. The RN administers a wrong IV medication that results in cardiac arrest and a difficult recovery for the patient. Liability in this situation: a. is limited to the temporary agency. b. is restricted to the RN. c. could include the RN, the agency, and your institution. d. may depend on the patient's belief regarding the employment relationship.

may depend on the patient's belief regarding the employment relationship.

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.

measurable and nursing-sensitive.

Case managed care may enhance profit in a for-profit health organization by: a. minimizing costs in high resource consumption areas. b. combining licensed and non-licensed care providers in delivering patient care. c. increasing reimbursement from third-party payers. d. reducing the amount of technology used to support clinical decision making.

minimizing costs in high resource consumption areas.

"At Thoroughcare, we provide health care for women and children in transition" is an example of a: a. vision statement. b. mission statement. c. goal statement. d. statement of philosophy.

mission statement.

Tracy is an RN case manager who interfaces between the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid. Tracy's responsibilities most likely would include: a. managing physician-led research. b. monitoring physician documentation of the need for medical care. c. determining which services are designated fee-for-service. d. identifying errors in physician diagnoses.

monitoring physician documentation of the need for medical care.

A member of a patient's family calls the nurse manager of the palliative care unit to express concern that a member of the family, who died on the weekend, had requested analgesics from the RNs on duty. An RN came with the analgesic nearly 45 minutes later, just after the patient had died. The manager is aware that the unit was especially busy that weekend because many patients were seriously ill, staff had called in ill, and the staffing manager was unable to completely replace staff who were absent. The manager is deeply troubled that the family member had to die in pain because it violates what she knows should have been done. This manager is experiencing: a. compromised agency. b. moral distress. c. moral sensitivity. d. moral dilemma.

moral distress.

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.

must be earned.

The chief nursing officer and the dean of the School of Nursing create a partnership based on belief that by establishing rules and regulations and controlling the environment, this partnership will: a. promote professional medical authority, autonomy, and responsibility. b. need a degree of flexibility to engender success. c. be essential for self-governance. d. provide for the establishment of medical committees.

need a degree of flexibility to engender success.

Based on Elizabeth's insights and suggestions, you involve pharmacy, only to discover that the change in practice involves practice committees, a medical practice committee, and concerns from administration about potential costs and safety of the proposed change to the IV protocols. The change process at this point is: a. linear. b. nonlinear. c. sabotaged. d. neutralized.

nonlinear.

When goals/outcomes are somewhat unclear in early preparation for a complex change, the manager and the change management team develop several acceptable goals/outcomes. This change in management approach is termed: a. unfreezing. b. nonlinear. c. cybernetic. d. linear.

nonlinear.

The number of adverse events such as falls and pressure ulcers on the unit is increasing. An ideal staffing plan to address this issue would include which of the following? Increasing the: a. total number of staff on the unit. b. staff and RN hours per patient. c. total number of staff and implementing 12-hour shifts. d. number of RNs and number of RNs with experience on the unit.

number of RNs and number of RNs with experience on the unit.

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.

number of people who are involved in health care.

A new CEO has been hired at Valley Hospital who proposes to change the centralized organizational structure that was put in place 10 years ago, based on widespread consultation with staff. The proposed structure involves substantial flattening of the organizational structure, with significant decision making being made at the point-of-care and an emphasis on interprofessional collaboration. There is a great deal of discussion about the balance between hospital-wide budget decision making and unit-based decision making. This discussion represents: a. Chaos theory. b. organizational redesign. c. organizational reengineering. d. restructuring.

organizational reengineering.

A nurse manager must also consider a number of internal variables that will affect staffing patterns. An internal variable to be considered is: a. organizational staffing policies. b. state licensing standards. c. American Nurses Association. d. consumer expectations.

organizational staffing policies.

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.

overly managed and not well led.

Staff members on your unit raise concern that there is rising acuity on the unit and lack of responsiveness in addressing these needs through appropriate staffing. They point to increased incidences of adverse and sentinel events on the unit. To address this concern, your hospital organization would do best to: a. implement a patient-classification system immediately. b. participate in databases that compare the outcomes and staffing levels versus those of similar institutions. c. provide increased numbers of staff to the unit. d. ignore such concerns because acuity is variable.

participate in databases that compare the outcomes and staffing levels versus those of similar institutions.

A nurse staffing plan takes into account: a. specific nurse-to-patient ratios per shift. b. participation of nurses in projecting staffing needs. c. compensation and benefits for each level of staff. d. the occupancy load of a unit.

participation of nurses in projecting staffing needs.

The wound care nurse decided to involve those to be affected by change early in the change management process. This can positively result in: a. coordination. b. resistance. c. anticipation. d. participation.

participation.

In an acute care unit, the nurse manager utilizes the functional nursing method as the care delivery model. The nurse manager's main responsibility is the needs of the: a. department. b. unit. c. staff. d. patient.

patient.

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.

patients are reliable sources about their own experiences but are limited in their ability to gauge clinical competence of staff.

A nurse manager working for a not-for-profit organization should be familiar with the regulations that impact the organization. Not-for-profit organizations: a. pay dividends to stockholders. b. can refuse clients who are unable to pay. c. have no paid employees. d. pay no taxes.

pay no taxes.

Two staff nurses are arguing about whose turn it is to work on the upcoming holiday. In trying to resolve this conflict, the nurse manager understands that interpersonal conflict arises when: a. risk taking seems to be unavoidable. b. people see events differently. c. personal and professional priorities do not match. d. the ways in which people should act do not match the ways in which they do act.

people see events differently.

A group of staff nurses is dissatisfied with the new ideas presented by the newly hired nurse manager. The staff wants to keep their old procedures, and they resist the changes. Conflict arises from: a. group decision-making options. b. perceptions of incompatibility. c. increases in group cohesiveness. d. debates, negotiations, and compromises.

perceptions of incompatibility.

A statement such as "We believe in the right of patients to make choices and to have care that is sensitive to their preferences and needs" is a _____ statement. a. mission b. goal c. vision d. philosophy

philosophy

The nurse case manager is working with a client admitted for end-stage renal disease. The case manager's major goal during this hospitalization for this patient is to: a. implement the care pathway on admission. b. provide direct nursing care throughout the hospitalization. c. supervise the nursing staff members who implement the care map. d. prevent additional hospitalizations resulting from complications of the client's disease.

prevent additional hospitalizations resulting from complications of the client's disease.

Mr. M. complains to you that one of your staff asked him details about his sexual relationships and financial affairs. He says that these questions were probing and unnecessary to his care, but he felt that if he refused to answer, the nurse would be angry with him and would not provide him with good care. Mr. M.'s statements reflect concern with: a. privacy. b. confidentiality. c. veracity. d. informed consent.

privacy.

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 and the nurses question why this has occurred. An appropriate action would be to: a. provide nurses with information about rationale for recent changes in security 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.

provide nurses with information about rationale for recent changes in security staffing.

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.

providing one source of data for QI initiatives.

The difference between staffing and scheduling is that staffing: a. puts the right person in the right position. b. puts the right person in the right time and place. c. refers to the number of nursing hours per patient per day. d. looks after interpretation of benefits and compensation.

puts the right person in the right position.

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.

recommending that a multidisciplinary team should assess the root cause of errors in medication.

In opening a new dialysis unit, the nurse manager has to develop a philosophy for the unit. This philosophy needs to: a. reflect the culture of the unit and its values. b. be developed by the nursing manager on the unit. c. identify the clients that will be served on the unit. d. replicate the organization's philosophy.

reflect the culture of the unit and its values.

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.

reinforce how this change will respond to the ideas and solutions generated by staff members.

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.

represent separate subcultures in the institution.

For a nurse manager in the functional nursing model, an approach that will assist in maintaining staff satisfaction in this specific model is: a. rotation of task assignments. b. frequent opportunities for in-service education. c. orientation to job responsibilities and performance expectations. d. team social events in off hours.

rotation of task assignments.

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.

secure the support of her closest colleagues on the unit.

An example of one strategy used to improve participation in the change process by staff fitting the behavioral description of innovators and early adopters is to: a. repeat the benefits of the change. b. share change experiences early in the process. c. initiate frequent interactions among staff. d. provide select information to the staff.

share change experiences early in the process.

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.

showing staff members the budget and asking for input about how to cut costs so that raises will be possible in the future.

You are considering putting forward a proposal to move the model of care from team nursing to a primary nursing hybrid: patient-focused care model. In considering this proposal, you recognize that significant costs specific to operationalizing this model are related to: a. implementation of an all-RN staff complement. b. significant changes in the physical structure of units. c. orientation of staff to new roles and responsibilities. d. testing and piloting technology at the bedside.

significant changes in the physical structure of units.

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.

stifle innovative thinking about ways to move out of financial jeopardy.

To effectively achieve a change goal/outcome in a change situation, the wound care specialist will: a. preserve the status quo. b. diminish facilitators and reinforce barriers. c. weigh the strength of forces. d. strengthen facilitating forces.

strengthen facilitating forces.

Your healthcare organization has a decentralized system for scheduling. As part of this process, after you have developed a draft schedule, you may need to: a. seek budgetary approval. b. balance personal schedules against institutional needs. c. negotiate the schedule with unit staff. d. submit the schedule to a centralized staffing office for review.

submit the schedule to a centralized staffing office for review.

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.

suggest that she reflect on situations in which she has had a positive influence and consider how her interactions contributed to the situation.

Elizabeth, an RN with approximately 15 years of service on your unit, walks away from one of the learning sessions on IV care and you overhear her telling a colleague that she thought the session was a waste of time because "the unit has been using heparin for years and there has never been any adverse effects." You follow up with Elizabeth and discover that she is really quite angry about the information sessions because she feels that you are implying that "what she has been doing all these years means that she is incompetent and doesn't care about her patients." After speaking with Elizabeth, a few days later you discover that she is now fine with the change but is concerned that other areas of the organization might resist the change because of perceptions related to patient safety and cost. She suggests that it is important to bring pharmacy on board as they have had previous concerns about the use of heparin. In relation to change theory, this is indicative of: a. systems level thinking. b. linear thinking. c. interprofessional collaboration. d. first-order change.

systems level thinking.

In reviewing the current delivery model, the nurse manager is aware that a demographic change that will have a significant effect on healthcare delivery systems of the future is: a. changes in staffing patterns. b. increasing reports of violence in the workplace. c. the increasing percentage of the population that will be over age 65. d. escalations in the cost of health care.

the increasing percentage of the population that will be over age 65.

The chief nursing officer is given the task of reviewing and proposing revision of the organization's mission, philosophy, and technology. In reviewing them, the chief nursing officer understands that they should be reflected in: a. the organizational structure. b. line and staff responsibilities. c. the policies and procedures. d. government regulations.

the organizational structure.

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.

the public depends on nurses to assume leadership in moving consumer advocacy concerns forward.

At Hospital XYZ, staff members on Y3 Unit have dealt with the third charge nurse in 3 years. Donna, the current charge nurse, lacks confidence in patient-nurse relationships, and scheduling and other processes are routinely left to the last minute. Staff members approached Donna first and then administration with their concerns about Donna's effectiveness as a leader. The staff was told that the problem is likely staff related, that it is simply an unhappy group, and that there is nothing that will be done further about their concerns. The philosophy of the organization indicates that "open, transparent communication between staff and management is desired and supported," and that "innovation and creative thinking are the foundation of the organization's progress." In assessing this situation as a newly hired senior executive, you anticipate that: a. staff members will resolve the conflict on their own. b. the situation will lead to ongoing disgruntlement and attrition. c. no further discussion or concerns will come out of the situation. d. the head nurse will be able to resolve the conflict on her own.

the situation will lead to ongoing disgruntlement and attrition.

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.

there is little external motivation and affirmation in leadership.

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.

they find that the journey to the solution is as important as the solution itself.

In the Unity Healthcare organization, communication flows: a. laterally. b. bottom to top. c. top to bottom. d. intermittently.

top to bottom.

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.

total organizational involvement is critical to QI.

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.

translating a global document into realistic plans for nursing.

To prepare for the orientation of newly hired nurses, the nurse manager plans a presentation outlining the concept of healthcare networks. Healthcare networks are: a. units that provide only primary care services. b. owned by the institutions. c. a feature of all public institutions. d. units that serve large populations.

units that serve large populations.

To prepare staffing schedules, a nurse manager needs to calculate paid non-productive time. When calculating paid non-productive time, the nurse manager considers: a. work time, educational time, and holiday time. b. paid hours minus worked hours. c. vacation time, holiday time, and sick time. d. paid hours minus meeting time.

vacation time, holiday time, and sick time.

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.

within.

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.

b. choose between alternatives. ANS: B

Factors that influence the ease with which conflict is resolved include all except which of the following? a. Level of interdependence of the parties b. Interprofessional collaboration c. Expression of one's own needs and ideas d. Avoidance of the issue or concern

Avoidance of the issue or concern

A patient is admitted to a medical unit with pulmonary edema. His primary nurse admits him and then provides a written plan of care. What type of educational preparation best fits the role of primary nurse? a. Baccalaureate b. Associate c. Diploma d. LPN/LVN

Baccalaureate

On your nursing unit, you employ LPNs, RNs, and advanced practice nurses. You will need to be familiar with at least: a. two nursing practice acts. b. two nursing practice acts in most states. c. one nursing practice act. d. one nursing practice act and a medical act.

one nursing practice act.

Elizabeth, an RN with approximately 15 years of service on your unit, walks away from one of the learning sessions on IV care and you overhear her telling a colleague that she thought the session was a waste of time because "the unit has been using heparin for years and there has never been any adverse effects." You follow up with Elizabeth and discover that she is really quite angry about the information sessions because she feels that you are implying that "what she has been doing all these years means that she is incompetent and doesn't care about her patients." Which of the following would be the most effective response to Elizabeth? a. "I understand how you feel, but you are going to have to change." b. "It is unfortunate that you feel this way. Others seem quite excited about the new information." c. "It is difficult sometimes to change what we know very well. Sometimes it can be frightening." d. "Perhaps I can arrange some more information sessions for you, so you can see just how important this change is to patient safety."

"It is difficult sometimes to change what we know very well. Sometimes it can be frightening."

In reviewing the job description of a nurse manager, the staff becomes aware that a nurse manager's role is complex. Which of the following duties are required of a nurse manager? (Select all that apply.) a. Ensure unit productivity reports. b. Develop policy and legislation to protect nurses' well-being. c. Plan staffing of UNPs only. d. Prepare a unit budget that reflects unit staffing needs. e. Monitor nurse-sensitive indicators such as falls and incidence of infections.

ANS: A, D, E

The unit is shifting from primary nursing to a team model in an effort to contain costs. Staff members are upset about the change and ask for a meeting to discuss the new model. After hearing their concerns related to reduction in professional autonomy, what is the initial response by the manager to address the concerns? a. Acknowledge the loss. b. Explain the reasons for change, emphasizing the need to reduce costs. c. Repeat the information several times, giving detailed budget overviews. d. Adjourn the meeting and provide explanation through e-mail.

Acknowledge the loss.

As the RN charge nurse on the night shift in a small long-term care facility, you've found that there is little turnover among your LPN and nursing assistant (NA) staff members, but they are not very motivated to go beyond their job descriptions in their work. Which of the following strategies might motivate the staff and lead to greater job satisfaction? a. Ask the director of nursing to offer higher wages and bonuses for extra work for the night LPNs and NAs. b. Allow the LPNs and NAs greater decision-making power within the scope of their positions in the institution. c. Hire additional staff so that there are more staff available for enhanced care, and individual workloads are lessened. d. Ask the director of nursing to increase job security for night staff by having them sign contracts that guarantee work.

Allow the LPNs and NAs greater decision-making power within the scope of their positions in the institution.

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

Applying strategies that aid in adoption of research in practice

A new graduate nurse wonders about the directions that her preceptor has given her regarding management of incontinent, confused patients. The new nurse brings the preceptor evidence-based information she located regarding incontinence interventions for confused patients and asks to talk about the guidance that given after the preceptor reviews the information in the article. What is the new nurse demonstrating in this situation? (Select all that apply.) a. Assertiveness b. Followership c. Management d. Insubordination

Assertiveness Followership

As a new nurse manager, you are aware of leadership, management, and followership principles. What is the first step to becoming an effective leader? a. Being an effective follower b. Taking a class on leadership c. Taking a class on management d. Getting an advanced degree

Being an effective follower

Three gravely ill patients are candidates for the only available bed in the ICU. As the supervisor, you assign the bed to the patient with the best chance of recovery. This decision reflects which of the following ethical principles? a. Beneficence b. Autonomy c. Veracity d. Nonmaleficence

Beneficence

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.

Berta, RN, who thoughtfully considers evidence and regularly uses it to try new approaches in her practice.

The chief nursing officer (CNO) is appointed for the local hospital in a rural area. The nursing committee agreed with the appointment of the new CNO offered the position. What is this type of leadership position considered? a. Formal leadership b. Informal leadership c. Director leadership d. Personal leadership

Formal leadership

During times of nursing shortages and increased nursing costs in health care, which of the following nursing care delivery models might come under greatest scrutiny? a. Case method b. Team nursing c. Functional nursing d. Nurse case management

Case method

Jill is the head nurse on a unit in a large hospital. Two of the staff nurses are constantly arguing and blaming each other, and a resolution has not occurred in months. To solve the existing conflict, which is the most creative conflict resolution? a. Avoiding b. Competing c. Compromising d. Collaborating

Collaborating

In hiring nurses during the transition from team nursing to a primary nursing model, Benner's work would suggest that you give priority to nurses who are at least at which level of competency? a. Advanced beginner b. Competent c. Proficient d. Novice

Competent

As a leader in nursing, one must seek new insights and establish personal tools to improve their lifelong learning. Which behavior by manager would be a concern for a chief nursing executive? a. Journaling for self-reflection b. Authentic relationships c. Complacent behavior d. Improved knowledge of staff

Complacent behavior

At a second negotiation session, the unit manager and staff nurse are unable to reach a resolution. What is the appropriate next step? a. Arrange another meeting in a week's time so as to allow a cooling-off period. b. Elevate the next negation session to the next manager, one level above. c. Insist that participants continue to talk until a resolution has been reached. d. Back the unit manager's actions and end the dispute.

Elevate the next negation session to the next manager, one level above.

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)

Improvement in patient outcomes

Staff at Valley Hospital are concerned that recent staffing cuts will affect their ability to provide quality patient care, and they express their concerns to senior management. The CEO of Valley Hospital makes the following statement: "We need to contain costs because our funding has been decreased." This is a good example of which of the following conditions that propel a situation toward conflict? a. Incompatible goals b. Role conflicts c. Structural conflict d. Competition for resources

Incompatible goals

A nurse on your inpatient psychiatric unit is found to have made sexually explicit remarks toward a patient with a previous history of sexual abuse. The patient sues, claiming malpractice. What conditions do not apply in this situation and do not support malpractice? a. Injury b. Causation c. Breach of duty d. Breach of duty of care owed

Injury

A nurse manager when in the formal leadership position attempts to translate the picture or vision of her facility across for the staff nurses. The manager is faced with a staff who is resistant to the vision of the facility. What is the theory the manger needs to incorporate to be effective? a. Model the Way b. Inspire a Shared Vision c. Challenge the Process d. The Four Agreements

Inspire a Shared Vision

Jane has transferred from the ICU to the CCU. She is very set in the way she makes assignments and encourages her new peers to adopt this method without sharing the rationale for why it is better. This is a good example of a process and procedure that creates which type of conflict? a. Organizational b. Intrapersonal c. Interpersonal d. Disruptive

Interpersonal

Sarah, a staff nurse on your unit, witnesses another nurse striking a patient. Sarah wants to remain friends with her colleague and worries that confrontation with her colleague or reporting her colleague will destroy their relationship. Sarah is experiencing which type of conflict? a. Intrapersonal b. Interpersonal c. Organizational d. Professional

Intrapersonal

Chart audits have revealed significant omissions of data that could have legal and financial guideline ramifications. The unit manager meets with the staff to discuss audit findings and to find approaches that will address the gaps in charting and achieve desired goals. What is the manager demonstrating? a. Leadership b. Management c. Decision making d. Vision

Management

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.

Management can be taught; leadership depends on abilities.

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.

d. identify the problem. ANS: D

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

Partnering with nurse researchers at a local university

The core of nursing leadership incorporates integration of unique qualities to include us as individuals. Which is not considered part of leadership integration? a. Person b. Leader c. Nurse d. Position

Position

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

Review of 35 studies on nurse work satisfaction to determine the significance of the aggregated research findings

You overhear a new graduate RN telling a nurse colleague that leadership and management belong to the unit manager, not to her. As a nursing colleague, what do you know to be true in regard to the statement? a. The statement is correct. Leadership is not the role of the staff nurse. b. The new graduate would benefit from further understanding of her role as a professional, whose influence may affect the decision making of patients, colleagues, and other professionals. c. The new graduate has been influenced by nurse leaders and managers who leave for other positions. d. The general perception is that nurse leaders and managers are not satisfied in their jobs.

The new graduate would benefit from further understanding of her role as a professional, whose influence may affect the decision making of patients, colleagues, and other professionals.

As the head of a nursing program, you consistently invite the ideas of your team about innovations in teaching, community partnerships, and curriculum design and invite participation in decisions. Many of these ideas have been implemented successfully, and your staff members are keen to try on other ideas. What is the leadership you are employing? a. Situational b. Trait-based c. Contingency-based d. Transformational

Transformational

Lee, the head nurse in ER, has attempted to meet Jillian, one of her staff RNs, for several days to discuss concerns about Jillian's relationships with her team members. Lee hopes to offer Jillian coaching so that Jillian's relationships can be more satisfying for Jillian and her team members. Each time Lee and Jillian set a time to meet, Jillian phones in sick. In this situation, Lee and Jillian are demonstrating: a. similar conflict management strategies. b. escalation of conflict. c. avoidance and compromise strategies. d. competing and compromise strategies.

avoidance and compromise strategies.

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.

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. d. assessment of patients being admitted through the Emergency Department. ANS: A, B, D

A strategy to increase RN staff retention at Valley Hospital includes: a. better compensation and benefits. b. clearer position descriptions. c. lay-offs of nursing assistants. d. adequate staffing to meet acuity levels.

adequate staffing to meet acuity levels.

The clinical coordinator expects the position description of the new wound care specialist to change nurses' responsibilities in caring for clients with skin integrity problems. The best approach to address this need for change, yet to have the best outcomes for clients, staff nurses, and the organization, is to: a. select one of the change models. b. use Lewin's model and principles of change. c. apply both planned and complexity theory approaches. d. form a task force of nursing staff and wound care specialists.

apply both planned and complexity theory approaches.

You volunteer at a free community clinic. A 13-year-old girl presents with chlamydia. The team leader at the clinic advises that: a. the state-defined age of legal consent is 18; therefore, no treatment can be delivered. b. the teen is underage and should be referred to the family general practitioner. c. care can be provided as long as consent is voluntary and information about treatment and options is provided. d. treatment is provided as long as telephone consent is obtained from a parent or legal guardian.

care can be provided as long as consent is voluntary and information about treatment and options is provided.

Elizabeth, an RN with approximately 15 years of service on your unit, walks away from one of the learning sessions on IV care and you overhear her telling a colleague that she thought the session was a waste of time because "the unit has been using heparin for years and there has never been any adverse effects." You follow up with Elizabeth and discover that she is really quite angry about the information sessions because she feels that you are implying that "what she has been doing all these years means that she is incompetent and doesn't care about her patients." Your response to her indicates that: a. Elizabeth will never adopt the change. b. Elizabeth is insecure in her practice. c. Elizabeth requires more information about the practice. d. change involves emotions.

change involves emotions.

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.

hold staff accountable for safe practices.

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.

how multilevel and interprofessional application of a procedure can slow adoption of EBP.

A nurse manager in a for-profit environment finds it difficult to recruit staff. This difficulty may be most related to aggressive profit goals and: a. lower salary compensation for staff. b. rising expectations of impoverished and indigent individuals for services. c. poor orientation and retention practices for staff. d. an overwhelming emphasis on accepting learners from health disciplines.

lower salary compensation for staff.

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.

points out the contributions of his staff to the outcomes and shares the praise with his staff.

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. positional conflict. b. management support of labor's initiatives. c. a spirit of trust between management and labor. d. an ability to resolve complaints.

positional conflict.

A colleague asks you to give her your password access so that she can view her partner's healthcare record without using her login. This request violates the patient's right to: a. privacy. b. confidentiality. c. undue authorization of treatment. d. protection against slander.

privacy.

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.

recommends transferring a nurse to another service.

A primary care clinic is established in Pleasantville to provide comprehensive services to infants, children, and families within the community. The executive director of the clinic oversees physician and nursing services for infants, children, and families; a neurodevelopmental clinic; psychology, family counseling, and social work services; nutritional counseling; speech and hearing services; and physiotherapy. This type of organizational structure is known as: a. hierarchical. b. bureaucratic. c. service-line. d. matrix

service-line.

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.

taking the opportunity to work with a mentor.

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.

that structure influences nurse burnout and participation in quality improvement initiatives.

Resistance is most likely when change: a. is not well understood. b. involves many layers in an organization. c. involves nonprofessional workers. d. threatens personal security.

threatens personal security.