The nurse supervisor is planning an educational program regarding time-management strategies for the nurse managers. Which of the following program outcomes is the most appropriate regarding the ability to analyze implementation of interventions?

Question

1. The nurse managers will be able to discuss the importance of thinking through process prior to performing the process to ensure maximum time-effectiveness.
2. The nurse managers will be able to identify two tasks that currently are performed by nurses on their units that the nurse managers can perform.
3. The nurse managers will be able to discuss the importance of increasing the number of supervision activities that the nurse managers could perform on their units.
4. The nurse managers will be able to discuss the importance of padding time into their routine meeting schedules to ensure that all topics are covered thoroughly.

Answer 1

Answer: 1

Rationale: The nurse leader must be able to identify tasks that can be consolidated, delegated, or eliminated. One of the best ways to save time is to evaluate how tasks are being performed. Tasks can be made easier and time can be saved when the process is reviewed prior to implementation. The nurse manager who begins to accept responsibility for performing tasks on the unit that could be performed by a staff member is practicing "underdelegation," which is a poor use of nurse manager's time. Nurse leaders should try to avoid excessive supervision of staff members because it takes away from the time that could be spent performing more valuable tasks. It is important to set specific times for meetings and to create timed agendas with timekeepers for routine meetings. When routine meetings or tasks last longer than they should, this is an example of "work expansion." Work expansion should be identified and eliminated.