Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

When facilitating change, which action should be taken first?

1. Communicate changes

2. Assess readiness

3. Evaluate outcomes

4. Support staff during change

The correct answer is: Assess readiness

In the context of facilitating change within an organization, the first action that should be taken is to assess readiness. This step is crucial because it allows a leader to understand the current environment, identify potential barriers, and gauge the attitudes and preparedness of the staff regarding the upcoming changes. Without assessing readiness, efforts to implement change may falter due to lack of support, misunderstanding, or resistance among staff members. By understanding how ready the organization is for change, leaders can tailor their communication strategies, support mechanisms, and training initiatives accordingly. This foundational step ensures that subsequent actions, such as communicating changes and supporting staff, are both effective and relevant to the specific needs and concerns of the team. Furthermore, assessing readiness can uncover training needs and inform leaders of possible pushbacks that need to be addressed proactively. Establishing this baseline of readiness ultimately leads to a smoother transition, fosters a culture of adaptability, and increases the likelihood of successful change implementation within the organization.