Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

What is the initial strategy for developing a culture of empowerment?

1. Define responsibilities

2. Outline expectations

3. Reward innovations

4. Identify key stakeholders

The correct answer is: Outline expectations

The initial strategy for developing a culture of empowerment lies in outlining expectations. When expectations are clearly defined from the start, individuals in the organization understand what is required of them and what they can aim for in their roles. This clarity fosters an environment where employees feel more confident in taking initiative, making decisions, and contributing to the organization's goals. By setting clear expectations, the organization establishes a framework within which staff can operate effectively and autonomously. This approach encourages proactive behavior and allows individuals to recognize how their contributions fit into the larger mission of the organization, promoting a sense of ownership and accountability. In contrast to the other choices, focusing solely on defining responsibilities, rewarding innovations, or identifying key stakeholders does not provide the foundational clarity necessary to foster a truly empowering culture. While these elements are important in their own right, they are secondary to the essential step of outlining what is expected, which ultimately supports the development of confidence and initiative among team members.