Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

Which of the following best characterizes the focus of TQM?

1. High-quality, continuous improvement

2. Compliance with regulatory standards

3. Maximizing profits above all

4. Minimizing patient complaints

The correct answer is: High-quality, continuous improvement

Total Quality Management (TQM) is primarily focused on achieving high-quality outcomes through continuous improvement in processes, products, and services. This approach emphasizes the importance of systematic efforts to enhance various aspects of an organization, including customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and employee involvement. By prioritizing quality and fostering a culture of continual improvement, TQM aims to ensure that all areas of the organization work collaboratively towards common goals, ultimately leading to better patient care and enhanced organizational performance. While compliance with regulatory standards, maximizing profits, and minimizing complaints are important considerations in healthcare management, they are not the central focus of TQM. Instead, TQM provides a framework that encourages organizations to go beyond mere compliance or profit maximization to embed quality into every function and process, thereby driving long-term success and satisfaction for both patients and staff.