Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which term is most related to controlling the liability of health-care institutions and their staffs?

1. Case management

2. Risk management

3. Evidence-based practice

4. Performance improvement

The correct answer is: Risk management

Risk management is the term most closely associated with controlling the liability of health-care institutions and their staffs. This field focuses on identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential risks that could lead to harm to patients, staff, or the organization itself. By implementing policies and procedures to minimize legal liabilities and enhance patient safety, risk management aims to protect the institution from malpractice claims and promote a safer healthcare environment. Through proactive measures and continuous monitoring, risk management helps ensure compliance with regulations and standards, thereby reducing the likelihood of events that could result in litigation. This approach is essential in health care, where the complexities of patient care and the potential for adverse events require a robust framework to manage liability effectively. In contrast, case management primarily revolves around coordinating patient care and resources, ensuring that individuals receive appropriate services throughout the continuum of care. Evidence-based practice emphasizes clinical decision-making based on the best available research evidence, while performance improvement focuses on enhancing the quality of care and organizational processes. Although these areas contribute to overall healthcare outcomes, they are not specifically targeted at controlling liability in the same manner that risk management is.