A charge nurse is concerned about a recent increase in facility-acquired catheter infections.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The leader allows the group to discuss whatever they would like to regarding their medications.

This is because a laissez-faire leadership style is characterized by minimal guidance and direction from the leader, and maximum freedom and autonomy for the followers.

The leader does not impose any rules or expectations on the group, and lets them decide how to manage their own learning and behavior.

Choice A is wrong because having group members vote on what they would like to learn about during the session is an example of a democratic leadership style, not a laissez-faire one.

A democratic leader solicits input and feedback from the group, and makes decisions based on consensus and majority rule.

Choice B is wrong because lecturing about medication adverse effects to the group members is an example of an authoritarian leadership style, not a laissez-faire one.

An authoritarian leader dictates what the group should do and how they should do it, without considering their opinions or preferences.

Choice D is wrong because encouraging group members to remain silent until questions are called for is an example of a paternalistic leadership style, not a laissez-faire one.

A paternalistic leader treats the group as if they are incapable of making their own decisions, and assumes a protective and nurturing role over them.

Normal ranges for leadership styles are not applicable in this context, as different styles may be more or less effective depending on the situation and the goals of the group.

However, some general advantages and disadvantages of each style are:

• Laissez-faire: Advantages - fosters creativity, independence, and self-motivation; Disadvantages - may lead to chaos, confusion, and lack of accountability.
• Democratic: Advantages - promotes participation, collaboration, and satisfaction; Disadvantages - may be time-consuming, inefficient, and conflict-prone.
• Authoritarian: Advantages - provides clarity, direction, and control; Disadvantages - may cause resentment, resistance, and dependency.
• Paternalistic: Advantages - creates trust, loyalty, and commitment; Disadvantages - may inhibit growth, development, and empowerment.

This instruction will help the client to prevent venous stasis and thrombosis, which are common postoperative complications. Range-of-motion exercises promote blood circulation and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures.

Choice B. “Use an incentive spirometer every 4 hours.” is wrong because it is not related to promoting circulation, but rather to improving lung expansion and preventing atelectasis and pneumonia. Using an incentive spirometer is also important for postoperative clients, but it does not address the question.

Choice C. “Remain on bed rest for 24 hours following the procedure.” is wrong because it is the opposite of promoting circulation.

Bed rest increases the risk of venous stasis, thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Postoperative clients should be encouraged to ambulate as soon as possible, unless contraindicated.

Choice D. “Place a pillow under your knees while in bed.” is wrong because it also impairs circulation and increases the risk of thrombosis.

Placing a pillow under the knees can cause pressure on the popliteal veins and reduce blood flow. Postoperative clients should avoid this position and keep their legs in a neutral or slightly elevated position.