Frequently Asked Questions
Chapter 25: Management and Policy

How is the emphasis on structure in the Donabedian model consistent with Florence Nightingale’s teachings?

Florence Nightingale felt that a clean, well-ventilated, cheerful environment is necessary for an individual to get well and stay well. The structure domain in the Donabedian model provides the resources to make the organization work well.

What types of data on management competency and leadership are assessed by JCAHO?

Management competency and leadership data include evaluation of administrative and human resources functions, administrative policies, documentation, medical staff credentialing, educational programs, and degree of organizational compliance with federal mandates.

What are the seven Environment of Care areas?

The seven Environment of Care areas are safety, security, utilities, emergency management, medical equipment, fire prevention, and hazardous materials and waste.

What is the rationale for an organization to seek JCAHO accreditation?

The rationale for an organization to seek JCAHO accreditation is (1) eligibility for Medicare, Medicaid, and other third party reimbursements depends upon JCAHO documentation; (2) accreditation is viewed as a quality benchmark by the public; and (3) accreditation motivates quality improvement activities.

What are the “Five Rights” of medication administration?

The “Five Rights” of medication administration are to ensure that the nurse is giving the right medication, in the right dose, for the right route, to the right client, at the right time.

What are the differences between law, rules and regulations, operational decisions, and judicial decisions?

Laws are policies enacted by legislators for a specific objective. Rules and regulations provide guidance for implementation of the law. Operational decisions are similar to rules and regulations except that they are less permanent. Judicial decisions are authoritative decisions made by judges and based on the interpretation of laws.