The chief executive officer asks the nurse manager of an intermediate care unit to justify the disproportionately high number of registered nurses on the unit. The nurse manager explains that nursing research has validated which statement about a low nurse-to-patient ratio?
Promotes teamwork among healthcare providers
Increases adverse events
Contributes to duplication of services
Improves client outcomes
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: While promoting teamwork among healthcare providers is important, it is not the primary reason for maintaining a low nurse-to-patient ratio. Teamwork is a byproduct of adequate staffing, which allows nurses to collaborate effectively.
Choice B reason: Increasing adverse events is the opposite of what a low nurse-to-patient ratio aims to achieve. Research shows that higher nurse-to-patient ratios are associated with increased adverse events.
Choice C reason: A low nurse-to-patient ratio does not contribute to the duplication of services. Instead, it ensures that nurses can provide adequate attention and care to each patient, which can reduce the need for redundant services.
Choice D reason: Nursing research has validated that a low nurse-to-patient ratio improves client outcomes. Studies have shown that lower ratios are associated with reduced mortality, medication errors, ulcers, restraint use, infections, pneumonia, and improved intervention times.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because it demonstrates a leader's emotional intelligence through active engagement, showing interest in the team's concerns, and fostering open communication.
Choice B reason: Writing down thoughts for others to read does not necessarily illustrate emotional intelligence. Expecting immediate responses can be inconsiderate of others' time and does not foster a supportive environment.
Choice C reason: Holding meetings at the nurses' station may show responsiveness to emergencies, but rarely participating in bedside care could indicate a lack of hands-on leadership and empathy.
Choice D reason: While accountability is important, interrupting people and raising one's voice during disagreements can create a hostile environment and does not reflect emotional intelligence.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A formalized competency program with established standards for practice ensures that all nurses meet a certain level of proficiency and adhere to the same high standards, which is essential for preventing clinical incompetence.
Choice B reason: While a standardized clinical skills checklist can be a useful tool for assessing specific skills, it does not encompass the comprehensive approach of a formalized competency program.
Choice C reason: Personality tests and competency assessments at the point of hire can help in selecting competent staff, but they are not sufficient on their own to prevent clinical incompetence throughout an employee's tenure.
Choice D reason: A flexible protocol for evaluating competency skills may allow for individualized assessment, but without established standards, it may not effectively prevent clinical incompetence.
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