Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: performance-based assessment. This type of evaluation focuses on assessing students' ability to perform tasks and demonstrate competence in real-world scenarios, such as client care environments or with standardized patients. It is a more practical and hands-on approach compared to traditional pencil-and-paper evaluations. Core practice competencies (A) refer to essential skills and knowledge required for a specific profession. Continuing competence (B) involves ongoing professional development to maintain skills and knowledge. Distance learning (C) is a method of education that does not require physical presence in a traditional classroom setting. Performance-based assessment best aligns with the description provided in the question, making it the correct choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because quantifying the amount and intensity of care required is essential to determine staffing needs based on patient acuity. This involves assessing the complexity and severity of patients' conditions, which directly impacts the level of care needed. Patient satisfaction (A) does not provide objective data on acuity. Examining skill mix (C) is important but not the primary factor in determining acuity. Hospital days (D) reflect length of stay, not acuity level.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it aligns with the ANA's recommendations for high-quality safe staffing. The nursing process involves assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation, which are essential for achieving safe patient outcomes. By allowing RNs enough time to apply this process, they can make informed decisions that promote quality care. Choice A is incorrect because patient needs can fluctuate throughout the shift, so staffing levels must be flexible to adapt to changing demands. Choice C is incorrect as patient acuity levels may require more RNs to provide complex care, rather than relying solely on unlicensed personnel. Choice D is incorrect as having adequate RN staffing is crucial for patient safety and outcomes, and cutting RN numbers for cost-effectiveness can compromise care quality.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Connection. The nurse's power comes from her ability to network and build relationships with influential individuals like the Chief of Medical Staff and the President of the hospital. This grants her access to information, resources, and opportunities not available to others. This power is based on who she knows rather than her expertise (A), position (B), or ability to offer rewards (D). The nurse's statement implies that her influence stems from her connections, making choice C the most appropriate answer.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: organizational skills. The novice nurse's inability to assess the number of admissions and postoperative patients before requesting assistance indicates a lack of organizational skills. Organizational skills involve prioritizing tasks, managing time efficiently, and planning ahead. In this scenario, the nurse failed to gather essential information before making a decision, leading to inefficiency and potential misallocation of resources. Choice B: communication skills, is not the best answer because the issue is not primarily related to communication breakdown but rather a lack of organizational skills. Choice C: interpersonal skills, is not the best answer because the problem does not stem from the nurse's ability to interact with others but rather from her inability to organize her workload effectively. Choice D: clinical skills, is not the best answer because the situation is more about managing workload and resources rather than clinical knowledge or expertise.