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 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: 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 because a nurse working for two competing healthcare organizations creates a conflict of interest as they may prioritize one organization over the other. This could compromise patient care and violate ethical standards. A: Accepting gifts from a patient may be inappropriate but does not necessarily create a conflict of interest. C: Disclosing patient information without consent is a breach of confidentiality but not specifically a conflict of interest. D: Delegating tasks improperly is a violation of professional standards but does not directly relate to a conflict of interest.

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.