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: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Continuous improvement. Total Quality Management (TQM) focuses on constantly improving processes, products, and services to meet or exceed customer expectations. TQM involves all employees in identifying and solving problems, emphasizing continuous learning and innovation. A: Top-down management is incorrect because TQM encourages involvement and empowerment of employees at all levels, not just top management. B: Employee-centered approach is incorrect because while TQM values employees and their contributions, it is primarily focused on improving overall quality and processes, not solely centered on employees. D: Quality control is incorrect because TQM goes beyond traditional quality control methods to encompass a holistic approach to quality management through continuous improvement efforts.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Understanding why a decision is needed is crucial in this situation to prioritize the client's well-being. 2. The nurse needs to assess the reasons behind the client's refusal to be repositioned, considering factors such as pain level and potential harm. 3. By determining the underlying cause, the nurse can make an informed decision on the best course of action to address the client's needs promptly. 4. Considering the alternatives (choice C) is important but secondary to understanding the urgency and necessity of the decision (choice A). 5. Who makes the decision (choice B) and when it is needed (choice D) are not as critical as the rationale behind the decision-making process. Summary: Choice A is correct because understanding the reason for the decision is essential for prioritizing the client's well-being. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly address the immediate need to assess the situation and make an informed decision based on the client's condition

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Surveys. Surveys are structured tools that allow for systematic collection of feedback from employees, providing quantitative and qualitative data on reasons for turnover. They offer anonymity, encouraging honest responses. Questioning (choice A) may not provide a comprehensive view, as it relies on informal conversations. Employee forums (choice C) may not capture individual perspectives effectively. Telephone calls (choice D) are not scalable for large organizations and lack the anonymity of surveys. In summary, surveys are the most effective tool for gathering in-depth insights into reasons for turnover.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of discipline is to teach. Discipline aims to guide individuals towards desired behaviors, values, and attitudes through positive reinforcement, correction, and guidance. It involves setting boundaries, providing structure, and helping individuals learn from their mistakes. Punishing (choice A) focuses solely on consequences without teaching alternatives. Evaluation (choice B) assesses performance but doesn't necessarily teach. Ridicule (choice D) is harmful and counterproductive, not a purpose of discipline. In summary, discipline primarily serves to educate and cultivate positive behavior.

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: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Use the abbreviation SC when indicating a subcutaneous injection. This is important because using standardized abbreviations helps prevent medication errors. SC is the accepted abbreviation for subcutaneous injections, ensuring clear communication among healthcare providers. Choice A is incorrect as using the complete name of medications can be time-consuming and unnecessary in documentation. Choice B is incorrect as spaces should be maintained between the numerical dose and the unit of measure for clarity. Choice D is incorrect as 'U' is not the standard abbreviation for insulin dosage; instead, units should be written in full to avoid confusion.

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: 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.