Ellen is a novice nurse on your unit. As her supervisor, you notice Ellen's knowledge and skill deficiencies. These deficiencies have been noticed by her peers as well. Which of the following is likely to be the greatest asset to Ellen in improving her performance?
Ignore Ellen's errors until she has more experience.
Ask Ellen to complete a self-assessment, using a standard skills checklist.
Instruct staff to avoid working with Ellen until she learns to do things herself.
Encourage staff to report every behavior of Ellen's that is different from theirs.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Ignoring Ellen's errors does not support her development and may lead to continued mistakes that could affect patient care and team dynamics.
B. A self-assessment using a standard skills checklist allows Ellen to reflect on her skills, identify areas needing improvement, and take ownership of her learning process. This approach encourages self-directed learning and accountability.
C. Instructing staff to avoid working with Ellen can foster isolation and hinder her development by denying her opportunities for mentorship and guidance.
D. Encouraging staff to report Ellen’s behaviors can create a negative environment, fostering distrust and discouraging collaboration rather than supporting her growth.
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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.