What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?

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Question 1 of 9

What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes.' Root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare aims to delve deep into the factors contributing to an error to prevent its recurrence. Choice A is incorrect as RCA focuses on identifying system issues, not blaming individuals. Choice C is incorrect as while improving patient satisfaction may result from the process, it is not the primary goal. Choice D is incorrect as the main focus of RCA is not financial analysis but rather improving patient safety.

Question 2 of 9

A client is refusing a blood transfusion for religious reasons. The client's partner wants the client to have the blood transfusion. Which of the following actions should be taken?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this situation, the nurse should ask the client to consider a direct donation. This option respects the client's autonomy by exploring alternative options that align with the client's beliefs. Withholding the blood transfusion (choice B) goes against the client's wishes and autonomy. Requesting a consultation with the ethics committee (choice D) should be considered if there is a disagreement that cannot be resolved at the bedside, but it is not the initial step. Choice C is a duplicate of choice A and does not provide a different or additional action to address the situation.

Question 3 of 9

Which level in Maslow's hierarchy is rarely met?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Self-actualization.' Self-actualization, the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy, involves developing one's full potential and achieving personal growth. It is considered rarely met because it requires a deep understanding of oneself, a strong sense of purpose, and the ability to pursue intrinsic goals. Esteem (choice A) focuses on respect, recognition, and self-esteem, which are more commonly achieved than self-actualization. Safety (choice B) and belongingness (choice D) are also more commonly attained as they relate to basic needs for security and social connections, which are essential for overall well-being.

Question 4 of 9

Which of the following is an example of a sentinel event?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, a patient suicide while in a healthcare facility. A sentinel event is an unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury. Choices A, B, and D do not meet the criteria for sentinel events as described by The Joint Commission, as they do not involve death or serious harm to the patient.

Question 5 of 9

Your nurse manager talks with you once per week to determine how you are adjusting to your role as a new nurse. She asks if you feel that you are able to provide good care to your patients, whether you are becoming familiar with the electronic health record, and whether your preceptor is encouraging your independence. This manager is demonstrating:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The nurse manager is showing an effort to understand if you are coping with the demands of your new role as a nurse. This approach demonstrates empathy and concern for your well-being and professional development. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because there is no indication of intrusion, intimidation, or authoritarian behavior in the manager's actions. Instead, the manager is engaging in supportive and constructive communication to help you adjust and grow in your new position.

Question 6 of 9

Which of the following best describes the concept of total quality management (TQM)?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Continuous improvement. Total quality management (TQM) focuses on continuously improving all aspects of healthcare delivery to enhance patient care, safety, and overall quality. Choice A, 'Top-down management,' does not capture the essence of TQM, which involves involvement at all levels of an organization. Choice B, 'Employee-centered approach,' while important, is not the defining characteristic of TQM. Choice D, 'Quality control,' is a component of TQM but does not fully encompass its comprehensive approach to quality improvement.

Question 7 of 9

The nurse is assessing a 22-year-old patient experiencing the onset of symptoms of type 1 diabetes. Which question is most appropriate for the nurse to ask?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Weight loss is a common symptom in the onset of type 1 diabetes due to the body's inability to use glucose for energy. The lack of insulin leads the body to break down fat and muscle for fuel, causing unintentional weight loss. This is a more relevant question compared to the others, as it directly relates to the metabolic changes associated with type 1 diabetes.

Question 8 of 9

A unit manager has been working to decrease the incidence of catheter-associated urinary tract infections on his unit, spending extra time on the unit researching best practices and conducting training. Having completed training, the manager decides to take a couple of days off. Which of the following leadership traits is this unit manager displaying?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Balance.' The unit manager is displaying balance by recognizing the importance of taking time off to rest and recharge after working diligently to decrease infections. 'Perseverance' is not the correct choice because the manager is taking time off, not persisting in the face of challenges. 'Generosity' and 'Ability to handle stress' are also incorrect as they do not align with the situation described.

Question 9 of 9

Characteristics that an interviewer will be most interested in when selecting a new staff will be: (EXCEPT)

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. When selecting new staff, interviewers are primarily interested in candidates' confidence in clinical skills, ability to work as a team member, and clinical competence. They are not concerned with how many hours of overtime a candidate is willing to work. Overtime hours may be important at times, but it is not a characteristic that an interviewer would prioritize when selecting new staff. Choices A, C, and D are essential qualities that interviewers look for in potential staff as they contribute to providing professional nursing care.

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