Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing Related

Review Ethics and Issues in Contemporary Nursing related questions and content

A task force is considering factors that contribute to high-quality safe staffing. Which statement reflects an understanding of the American Nurses Association's (ANA) recommendations?

  • A. Because patient needs remain constant on a daily shift, staffing needs at the beginning of the shift should be sufficient to provide safe, high-quality care.
  • B. Staffing should allow time for the RN to apply the nursing process so decisions result in high-quality, safe patient outcomes.
  • C. Patient acuity levels affect staffing by increasing the need for unlicensed personnel to provide routine basic care rather than increasing RNs in staff mix.
  • D. RN staffing is not cost-effective; thus is it important for staffing models to limit the number of RNs assigned per shift.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it aligns with the ANA's recommendations for high-quality safe staffing. The nursing process involves assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation, which are essential for achieving safe patient outcomes. By allowing RNs enough time to apply this process, they can make informed decisions that promote quality care.

Choice A is incorrect because patient needs can fluctuate throughout the shift, so staffing levels must be flexible to adapt to changing demands. Choice C is incorrect as patient acuity levels may require more RNs to provide complex care, rather than relying solely on unlicensed personnel. Choice D is incorrect as having adequate RN staffing is crucial for patient safety and outcomes, and cutting RN numbers for cost-effectiveness can compromise care quality.