Which option most closely demonstrates the concept of shared governanc

QUESTION

Which option most closely demonstrates the concept of shared governance in a health care organization?

1. The nurse makes the decision to increase the frequency of output measurement on a postoperative client.
2. The nurse complains to a co-worker that there is not enough staff on duty for the patient acuity this shift.
3. The nurse is asked to serve on one of the strategic planning committees of the hospital.
4. The nurse is asked to be chairperson of a fundraising committee.

ANSWER:

Correct Answer: 3

The focus of shared governance is to encourage nurses to participate in decision-making at all levels of the organization. The clearest example of this is the nurse being asked to serve on the strategic planning committee. Being chairperson of a fundraising committee will not have the same impact on the decisions being made about the future of the organization. The nurse who simply complains to a co-worker is not being an effective change agent. Making client-centered care decisions is the role of the nurse, but does not exemplify shared governance.