After reviewing her monthly budget report, the nurse manager sees that she has a negative variance, which prompts her to change the staffing schedule. Which of the following data is an example of a negative variance?
A decrease in the actual nursing staffing hours compared to the planned hours.
A surplus of available nurses on a particular day.
A decrease in the cost of medical supplies.
An increase in patient satisfaction scores.
The Correct Answer is A
A. A decrease in actual nursing staffing hours compared to planned hours indicates a negative variance, as it suggests that staffing was not at the desired levels, potentially impacting patient care.
B. A surplus of available nurses could suggest efficient staffing; thus, it does not represent a negative variance.
C. A decrease in the cost of medical supplies would typically indicate a positive variance, reflecting better financial management.
D. An increase in patient satisfaction scores is a positive outcome and does not relate to negative variances in budgetary terms.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While managing medication costs is important, it is typically not as significant in terms of overall budget impact compared to staffing.
B. Managing supplies can contribute to cost reductions, but staffing is usually a more substantial portion of a nursing budget.
C. Staffing costs represent the largest expense in most nursing budgets, and nurse managers can have a significant influence on these costs through effective scheduling, staffing ratios, and retention strategies.
D. Fixed costs, such as rent or utilities, do not fluctuate based on operational decisions made by nurse managers and thus offer less opportunity for cost reduction at the managerial level.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Adjusting the employee's work schedule may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying emotional issues that need professional attention.
B. Assisting the employee in obtaining professional help is the most crucial action a nurse manager can take. This ensures that the employee receives the appropriate support and intervention needed to address their emotional challenges.
C. Acting as a therapist for the employee is outside the scope of a nurse manager's role and may lead to ethical and professional boundaries being crossed.
D. Adjusting the standard of care to assist the employee compromises the quality of patient care and is not a viable solution for supporting an emotionally troubled employee.
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