Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

Control charts are used to monitor which of the following?

1. The overall employee satisfaction

2. The limits of quality indicators over time

3. The amount of training hours completed

4. The budget adherence of departments

The correct answer is: The limits of quality indicators over time

Control charts are a fundamental tool in quality control and process management, designed to monitor process variations over time and ensure that a system operates within predetermined limits. The primary purpose of control charts is to track specific quality indicators and evaluate how they behave over an established period. By plotting data points over time, control charts allow for the identification of trends, shifts, or any unusual patterns that may signify a deviation from the norm. This method helps in maintaining consistent performance and identifying areas needing improvement. The limits on control charts are derived from statistical analysis, which helps in determining whether a process is stable and under control or if corrective actions are necessary. In contrast, the other options refer to aspects that do not typically employ control charts. Monitoring overall employee satisfaction might utilize surveys and analysis rather than a control chart. Similarly, tracking the number of training hours completed focuses on input metrics, not process stability. Budget adherence is generally tracked through financial reviews or variance analysis, not through the dynamic monitoring that control charts provide. Therefore, using control charts specifically aligns with the purpose of monitoring limits of quality indicators over time.