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

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare is to prevent future errors by identifying underlying causes. This is because RCA focuses on understanding the fundamental reasons behind incidents to implement effective preventive measures. By identifying root causes, healthcare providers can implement strategies to mitigate risks and enhance patient safety. The other choices are incorrect because RCA is not about assigning blame (A), improving patient satisfaction (C), or analyzing financial impact (D), but rather about understanding and addressing the core issues to prevent recurrence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Screening for hypertension. Secondary prevention aims to detect and treat a disease in its early stages to prevent further progression. Screening for hypertension helps identify individuals at risk and enables timely intervention to prevent complications. Administering flu vaccinations (A) is an example of primary prevention. Performing a mastectomy (C) is a treatment method for existing breast cancer, falling under tertiary prevention. Providing rehabilitation after surgery (D) focuses on restoring function post-treatment, also part of tertiary prevention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary focus of a patient safety program is to enhance patient satisfaction. This is because the ultimate goal of patient safety initiatives is to ensure that patients receive safe and high-quality care, leading to improved patient experience and satisfaction. By prioritizing patient safety, healthcare providers can build trust with patients, reduce medical errors, and prevent harm. Why other choices are incorrect: A: While reducing healthcare costs may be a positive outcome of a patient safety program, it is not the primary focus. B: Improving clinical outcomes is an important goal of patient safety programs, but it is not the primary focus as patient satisfaction encompasses a broader aspect of care. D: Compliance with regulatory standards is essential, but it is a means to achieve patient safety rather than the primary focus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because evidence-based management involves integrating managerial expertise with research evidence to make informed decisions. This approach ensures decisions are grounded in data and proven strategies, leading to more effective outcomes. Choice A is incorrect as it relies solely on personal experience, neglecting valuable external evidence. Choice C is incorrect as intuition alone may not always lead to optimal decisions. Choice D is incorrect as it focuses only on peer-reviewed literature, excluding the importance of combining it with managerial expertise.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Self-actualization. This level in Maslow's hierarchy is rarely met because it represents the highest level of personal growth and fulfillment, where individuals achieve their full potential and self-realization. Most people do not reach this level as it requires a deep understanding of oneself and a continuous journey of personal development. Esteem (A), Safety (B), and Belongingness (D) are more basic needs that are relatively easier to fulfill compared to self-actualization. These lower levels focus on physical and social needs that are essential for survival and well-being, whereas self-actualization involves achieving one's highest aspirations and inner fulfillment.