A staff nurse confronts a nurse manager expressing that she believes the manager’s scheduling decisions are unfair. Which of the following responses by the nurse manager exhibits assertiveness?
I believe I am rightly following our agency’s scheduling policies. Could you elaborate on your concerns?
Why do you think I am being unfair? Your emotions are clouding your judgment.
You shouldn’t make accusations or imply your own shortcomings too.
I’m sorry, I will try to be more fair from now on.
I’m sorry, I will try to be more fair from now on
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
I believe I am rightly following our agency’s scheduling policies. Could you elaborate on your concerns? This response demonstrates assertiveness by acknowledging the nurse’s concerns and inviting further discussion. It shows that the nurse manager is confident in their actions but is also open to understanding the staff nurse’s perspective. This approach fosters open communication and problem-solving, which are key components of effective leadership.
Choice B Reason:
Why do you think I am being unfair? Your emotions are clouding your judgment. This response is dismissive and confrontational. It invalidates the staff nurse’s feelings and implies that their concerns are not legitimate. Such a response can escalate the conflict and damage the working relationship between the nurse manager and the staff nurse.
Choice C Reason:
You shouldn’t make accusations or imply your own shortcomings too. This response is defensive and accusatory. It shifts the focus from the issue at hand to the staff nurse’s behavior, which is not constructive. Effective communication should address the concerns directly without making personal attacks.
Choice D Reason:
I’m sorry, I will try to be more fair from now on. While this response shows a willingness to change, it lacks assertiveness. It implies that the nurse manager agrees with the accusation of unfairness without seeking to understand the specific concerns. Assertiveness involves standing by one’s decisions while being open to feedback and discussion.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Temporarily setting aside upcoming organizational changes to concentrate exclusively on the unit’s requirements might seem like a good idea to focus on immediate needs. However, this approach can be short-sighted. Organizational changes often impact staffing needs, budget allocations, and overall unit operations. Ignoring these changes can lead to a misalignment between the unit’s budget and the broader organizational goals, potentially causing issues in the long run.
Choice B Reason:
Assessing the unit’s workload and taking into account the services it provides is crucial for developing an effective staffing budget. This approach ensures that the budget reflects the actual needs of the unit, including the number of staff required to deliver quality care and the types of services offered. By understanding the workload, the nurse manager can allocate resources more efficiently, ensuring that the unit operates smoothly and meets patient care standards. This method aligns with best practices in budget development for nurse managers, as it provides a clear picture of the unit’s needs and helps in planning for future demands.
Choice C Reason:
Identifying the services offered by competing healthcare organizations in nearby regions can provide valuable insights into market trends and competitive positioning. However, this information is more relevant for strategic planning and marketing rather than for developing a staffing budget. While it’s important to be aware of the competitive landscape, the primary focus of a staffing budget should be on the internal needs and workload of the unit.
Choice D Reason:
Ensuring that work schedules are prepared several months in advance is a good practice for operational efficiency and staff satisfaction. It helps in managing staff availability and reducing last-minute scheduling conflicts. However, this task is more related to day-to-day management and does not directly contribute to the development of a staffing budget. The budget should be based on a thorough assessment of the unit’s workload and service requirements, rather than just on scheduling practices.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
“I will begin once the client’s insurance company approves discharge coverage.” This statement indicates a misunderstanding of the discharge planning process. Discharge planning should not be contingent upon insurance approval. While insurance coverage is an important aspect of discharge planning, it should not dictate when the planning process begins. Effective discharge planning starts early to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of care for the patient.
Choice B Reason:
“I will begin 48 hours before the client’s discharge.” Starting discharge planning 48 hours before discharge is too late. Discharge planning is a comprehensive process that involves assessing the patient’s needs, coordinating with various healthcare providers, and arranging for post-discharge care. Beginning the process only 48 hours before discharge does not allow sufficient time to address all necessary aspects of the patient’s care and can lead to rushed and incomplete planning.
Choice C Reason:
“I will begin upon the client’s admission to the facility.” This statement demonstrates a correct understanding of when to initiate discharge planning. Starting discharge planning at the time of admission ensures that the patient’s needs are identified early, and appropriate arrangements can be made for their care after discharge. This proactive approach helps in preventing delays and complications, ensuring a seamless transition from hospital to home or another care setting.
Choice D Reason:
“I will begin once the client’s discharge order is written.” Waiting until the discharge order is written to start planning is too late. By this time, there may not be enough time to arrange for necessary services, equipment, or follow-up care. Effective discharge planning requires early initiation to ensure that all aspects of the patient’s post-discharge needs are addressed in a timely manner.
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