Author Question: Accountability is a critical aspect of nursing care. An example of a specific decision-making ... (Read 27 times)

bobthebuilder · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Accountability is a critical aspect of nursing care. An example of a specific decision-making pro-cess of accountability is demonstrated by:

1. Selecting the medication schedule for the client
2. Implementing discharge teaching plans that meet individual needs
3. Evaluating the client's outcomes following implementation of care
4. Promoting participation of all staff members in regular unit meetings

Question 2

One advantage of a decentralized management structure for nursing units over a centralized structure is that:

1. Communication pathways are simplified
2. Staff are not responsible for defining their roles
3. Managers handle all of the difficult decision making
4. Each staff member is accountable for evaluating the plan of care

Chou · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: 3
Accountability refers to individuals being responsible for their actions. It involves follow-up and a reflective analysis of one's decisions to evaluate their effectiveness. Selecting the medication schedule for the client is an example of taking responsibility. Implementing discharge teaching plans that meet individual needs is an example of autonomy. Promoting participation of all staff members in unit meetings is an example of decentralized management and of promoting authori-ty.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: 4
In decentralized management, decision making is moved down to the level of staff. It requires workers to be empowered to accept greater responsibility for the quality of client care provided. This means that each staff member is accountable for evaluating the plan of care. Communication pathways are not simplified. If decentralized decision making is in place, professional staff have a voice in identifying the RN role. Each RN on the work team is responsible for knowing his or her role and how it is to be implemented on the nursing unit. In decentralized management, there is autonomy. In other words, there is freedom to decide and act. The nurse manager does not necessarily handle the difficult decisions. Those staff members who are best informed about a problem or issue make decisions on the basis of knowledge.