Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What is the main goal of risk management in healthcare settings?

1. To improve clinical outcomes

2. To prevent accidents and control liability

3. To increase patient satisfaction

4. To enhance staff performance

The correct answer is: To prevent accidents and control liability

The primary aim of risk management in healthcare settings is to prevent accidents and control liability. This involves identifying potential risks that could harm patients, staff, or the organization itself and implementing strategies to mitigate these risks. By focusing on prevention, healthcare organizations can reduce the likelihood of incidents that lead to injury, malpractice claims, or loss of reputation. Effective risk management helps create a safer environment for patients and staff, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and fostering trust in healthcare services. While improving clinical outcomes, increasing patient satisfaction, and enhancing staff performance are important goals in healthcare, they are often outcomes of effective risk management practices rather than the main focus. Risk management lays the foundation for achieving these goals by ensuring safety and reducing the potential for harm, which ultimately contributes to better overall performance in a healthcare setting.