An expensive variable in salary budgets is overtime pay. Which of the following is a viable option to reduce overtime?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Using per diem workers. This option is viable because per diem workers can be brought in to cover shifts without incurring overtime costs. By utilizing per diem workers, the organization can reduce the need for regular staff to work overtime hours, hence decreasing overall overtime expenses. A: Limiting overtime for highly paid workers is not a practical solution as all workers, regardless of pay, may contribute to the need for overtime. B: Reducing the number of beds may lead to reduced capacity and impact patient care, not directly addressing the issue of reducing overtime. D: Refusing to pay overtime is not a sustainable solution as it may lead to legal issues and impact employee morale and productivity.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Change union affiliation. Decertification refers to the process of employees voting to remove a union as their bargaining representative. This means changing or ending their current union affiliation. A: Encouraging union affiliation is not related to decertification, as it involves promoting rather than changing union membership. C: Rewarding union affiliation is not accurate for decertification, as it does not involve rewarding but rather changing the affiliation. D: Empowering union affiliation is not the correct choice, as decertification does not enhance but rather changes or removes union representation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it addresses the issue directly and effectively. By talking individually with your friends and explaining the need for equitable patient assignments, you are promoting fairness and transparency in your delegation process. This approach fosters open communication and helps maintain professional boundaries. Choice B is incorrect because suppressing your feelings of anger can lead to further tension and unresolved conflicts. Choice C is inappropriate as it involves gossiping about other staff members, which is unprofessional and can create additional problems. Choice D is not a proactive solution and avoiding addressing the issue will only prolong the negative impact on your relationships and work environment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Flexibility. In a fast-paced healthcare environment, being flexible is crucial to adapt to changes quickly. It allows you to navigate uncertainties, respond to new challenges, and adjust your approach as needed. Being friendly (A) is important but not as critical as flexibility. Humility (B) is valuable but may not directly impact success in a dynamic environment. While the ability to anticipate consequences (C) is beneficial, it does not provide the same level of adaptability and versatility as flexibility does in a rapidly changing healthcare setting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Substituting personal days. This approach addresses absenteeism by allowing employees to use personal days instead of sick days, promoting honesty and reducing misuse. Rewarding non-absent employees (A) may not address underlying causes of absenteeism. Termination (C) is extreme and counterproductive. Disciplinary actions (D) may create a negative work environment. Substituting personal days encourages responsible time management and positive behavior.