What is the main purpose of a clinical audit?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The main purpose of a clinical audit is to identify areas for improvement. This involves reviewing current practices, identifying gaps or inefficiencies, and implementing changes to enhance the quality of patient care. Patient satisfaction (A) is important but not the primary goal of a clinical audit. Evaluating the effectiveness of clinical practices (B) may be a part of the audit process, but not the main purpose. Standardizing patient care protocols (D) is beneficial but is not the primary aim of a clinical audit, which focuses on continuous quality improvement.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because shared decision-making in healthcare involves both patients and providers actively participating in the decision-making process together. This collaborative approach allows for a discussion of treatment options, considering patient preferences, values, and medical evidence. It promotes patient autonomy and enhances the quality of care by incorporating both the patient's perspective and the provider's expertise. Choice A is incorrect because shared decision-making is not solely about patients making healthcare decisions independently. Choice C is incorrect as it describes a paternalistic approach where providers dictate treatment plans to patients, which is not in line with the principles of shared decision-making. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to evidence-based guidelines, which are important but not the sole focus of shared decision-making.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To enhance patient safety. The main goal of a nursing quality improvement program is to improve the quality of care provided to patients, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and safety. By implementing strategies to enhance patient safety, such as reducing medical errors and improving communication among healthcare team members, the overall quality of care is improved. Choice B (To reduce healthcare costs) is incorrect because while cost-efficiency may be a secondary benefit of a QI program, it is not the primary goal. Choice C (To ensure regulatory compliance) is also incorrect as regulatory compliance is important but not the main focus of a QI program. Choice D (To maintain high patient satisfaction) is not the main goal of a QI program as patient satisfaction alone does not guarantee improved patient safety or outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary teamwork. Magnet-designated hospitals are recognized for their commitment to nursing excellence and quality patient care. Interdisciplinary teamwork is crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and promoting a holistic approach to healthcare. Collaboration among healthcare professionals ensures comprehensive patient care. Other choices are incorrect because high nurse turnover rates, limited professional development opportunities, and a focus on advanced technology do not necessarily define a Magnet-designated hospital.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Extinction. Extinction is a behavior modification technique where negative behavior is eliminated by withholding reinforcement previously maintaining it. Ignoring the behavior prevents it from being reinforced, leading to its decrease over time. Punishment (A) involves applying aversive consequences to reduce behavior. Shaping (C) is a technique to gradually modify behavior by reinforcing successive approximations. Equity (D) refers to fairness and equal treatment, not a behavior modification technique.