Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

How should a CNL respond upon finding out that a patient with MRSA has not had appropriate precautions put in place?

1. Inform the nurse to prioritize addressing the issue for patient safety

2. Offer to handle the issue personally and implement precautions

3. Ensure the nurse understands the importance and facilitate immediate action

4. Reprimand the nurse for not managing the situation sooner

The correct answer is: Ensure the nurse understands the importance and facilitate immediate action

The correct response involves ensuring the nurse understands the importance of implementing precautions and facilitating immediate action. As a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL), the primary role is to promote patient safety and quality care through effective communication and collaboration within the healthcare team. In this scenario, the presence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) requires strict adherence to infection control protocols to prevent further spread and protect other patients. By emphasizing the importance of these precautions, the CNL can enhance the nurse's understanding and motivate swift action to correct the oversight. This approach fosters a culture of safety and teamwork rather than creating an adversarial atmosphere. Encouraging the nurse’s engagement and providing guidance aligns with the CNL's responsibility to lead by example and support their colleagues in delivering high-quality care. It also reflects the principle of shared accountability in healthcare settings, as it’s essential for all team members to recognize and act upon their roles in safeguarding patient welfare.