1. When planning a shift of work the following first priorities should be addressed:
A. life threatening occurrences
B. the big picture
C. activities essential to the plan of care
D. activities essential to safety

2. A shift action plan is used:
A. in lieu of shift report
B. to record vital signs and pertinent data to become a part of the medical record
C. to make assignments for team members and sets priorities

3. Time management principles apply to which components of a nurse:
A. personal
B. professional
C. educational
D. all of the above

Answers to Study Questions

1. A. The highest priority in managing care is always addressing any life threatening situation first. It does not mean that an entire shift or other patients are ignored. Delegation needs to occur to ensure operations continue when critical events happen during the course or at the outset of a shift.

2. C. Shift action plans are effective tools used to document, communicate, and remind staff regarding key highlights specific to patient care. They typically contain the patient’s name, characteristics or descriptions, special needs and assignments.

3. D. It is important to apply time management principles to all aspects of oneself. If one aspect such as, personal, professional, or educational is not managed well, it will impact upon the others.