The registered nurse is caring for a client who had a sudden episode of vomiting, which produced 900 mL of frank blood. The nurse directed and delegated to colleagues in order to notify the physician.
The nurse started intravenous fluids and provided physical and emotional support for the client. Which of the following leadership styles did the nurse display in this situation?
Laissez-faire leadership
Autocratic leadership
Democratic leadership
Transformational leadership
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Laissez-faire leadership involves a hands-off approach, where the leader relinquishes much of the decision-making power to the group. This style is less suitable for time-sensitive, high-stakes situations like the one described in the question, where prompt action and clear direction are crucial.
In this case, the nurse took a more proactive and directive role, which is characteristic of autocratic leadership.
While laissez-faire leadership can be effective in certain contexts, it would not have been the most appropriate approach in this particular situation.
Choice B rationale:
Autocratic leadership is characterized by a strong focus on control and centralized decision-making. The leader typically makes decisions independently and expects followers to comply with instructions.
This style can be effective in situations that require quick action and clear direction, such as emergencies or crises. In the scenario presented, the nurse's actions align with autocratic leadership:
The nurse immediately took charge of the situation, directing colleagues to notify the physician and starting intravenous fluids. These actions demonstrate a clear sense of authority and control, which are key elements of autocratic leadership.
While autocratic leadership can sometimes be perceived as overly controlling, it was necessary in this situation to ensure the client's safety and well-being.
Choice C rationale:
Democratic leadership involves a more collaborative approach, where the leader seeks input from followers and encourages participation in decision-making.
This style can be effective in building consensus and fostering teamwork, but it may not be as efficient in situations that require urgent action.
In this case, the nurse did not have time to engage in extensive consultation or discussion. They needed to act quickly and decisively to address the client's needs.
Therefore, democratic leadership would not have been the most appropriate style in this context.
Choice D rationale:
Transformational leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating followers to achieve common goals. Transformational leaders encourage creativity, innovation, and personal growth.
This style can be effective in promoting long-term organizational change and development.
However, in the immediate crisis situation described in the question, the nurse's primary focus was on addressing the client's immediate needs, rather than on fostering long-term change or transformation.
Therefore, transformational leadership would not have been the most suitable style for this particular scenario.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Administering pre-operative medications does not address the client's expressed desire regarding resuscitation. It is a necessary step in preparing the client for surgery, but it does not directly relate to their preferences for end-of-life care.
Fulfilling this task does not ensure that the client's wishes are communicated to the appropriate healthcare providers, potentially leading to unwanted resuscitative efforts if the client's condition deteriorates during surgery.
It is crucial for the nurse to prioritize the client's autonomy and right to self-determination regarding their healthcare choices.
Choice B rationale:
Informing the physician after the surgery is complete is not timely and could result in the client's wishes not being respected.
The physician needs to be aware of the client's resuscitation preferences before the procedure begins to ensure that care aligns with their wishes.
Delaying communication could lead to ethical and legal dilemmas if resuscitation is attempted against the client's expressed desires.
Choice C rationale:
This is the most appropriate action because it directly addresses the client's concerns and ensures that their wishes are documented and communicated effectively.
Having a clear conversation with the client allows for exploration of their understanding of resuscitation and any potential concerns or questions they may have.
Recording the client's wishes in their medical record provides a clear record for all healthcare providers involved in their care, promoting consistency and respect for their autonomy.
Choice D rationale:
While verbally communicating the client's wishes to the operating room supervisor is important, it is not sufficient on its own.
Written documentation in the medical record is essential to ensure that the information is accurately conveyed to all members of the healthcare team and accessible throughout the client's care journey.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Impaired cognitive and motor function:
Anesthesia and analgesic medications used during surgery can significantly impair cognitive and motor skills, even if the patient feels alert and capable. These effects can last for several hours or even days after the procedure, making it unsafe for the patient to drive.
Studies have shown that reaction time, judgment, coordination, and visual acuity can be significantly impaired following surgery, even in patients who report feeling normal.
Driving under the influence of these medications poses a serious risk of accidents and injuries, both to the patient and other road users.
Risk of postoperative complications:
Postoperative complications, such as bleeding, nausea, vomiting, pain, or dizziness, can occur unexpectedly and may require immediate attention.
Driving while experiencing these complications can be extremely dangerous and could delay necessary medical intervention.
It's crucial for the patient to have a responsible adult present to monitor their condition and seek medical assistance if needed. Legal and liability considerations:
Many healthcare facilities have strict policies prohibiting patients from driving after surgery due to liability concerns.
If a patient were to be involved in an accident while driving after surgery, the facility could be held liable for not ensuring the patient's safety and preventing them from driving.
Choice B rationale:
Inadequate guidance: Simply stating that no specific information is necessary fails to address the potential risks associated with driving after surgery.
Patient safety: It's the nurse's responsibility to provide clear and comprehensive discharge instructions that prioritize patient safety.
Omission of crucial information: Omitting information about transportation could lead to misunderstandings and potentially unsafe actions by the patient.
Choice C rationale:
Unreliable self-assessment: Relying on the patient's self-assessment of dizziness is not a reliable method to determine their fitness to drive.
Residual effects of medication: Patients may not fully perceive the subtle effects of anesthesia and medications on their cognitive and motor skills.
Potential for delayed impairment: Symptoms such as dizziness or drowsiness could manifest later, even if the patient initially feels well.
Choice D rationale:
Age not a sole determinant: While age can be a factor in driving ability, it's not the sole determinant of fitness to drive after surgery.
Individual differences: Patients of any age can experience cognitive and motor impairment following surgery.
Oversimplification of risks: This choice inaccurately suggests that only individuals under 25 are at risk, potentially leading to unsafe decisions by older patients.
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