NCLEX-Style Exam: Leadership and Management in Nursing
This exam consists of 100 challenging NCLEX-style questions covering leadership and
management concepts in nursing. Each question is followed by the correct answer and
rationale. Use this as a practice resource to enhance your preparation.
Question 1
Which of the following best describes the primary role of a nurse leader?
A. Ensuring strict adherence to hospital policies.
B. Inspiring team members to achieve shared goals.
C. Delegating tasks to subordinates.
D. Monitoring the budget and resources.
Correct Answer:
B. Inspiring team members to achieve shared goals.
Rationale:
A nurse leader primarily focuses on motivating and guiding team members to accomplish
common objectives, aligning with the concept of leadership as a social influence process.
Question 2
A nurse manager notices increased absenteeism among staff. Which leadership approach is
most appropriate to address this issue?
A. Autocratic leadership to enforce attendance policies.
B. Democratic leadership to involve staff in decision-making.
C. Laissez-faire leadership to allow staff autonomy.
D. Transformational leadership to inspire and engage staff.
Correct Answer:
D. Transformational leadership to inspire and engage staff.
Rationale:
Transformational leadership emphasizes motivating and engaging staff by addressing their
needs and fostering a positive work environment, which can help reduce absenteeism.
Question 3
Which leadership theory emphasizes matching leadership styles to the readiness level of
the team?
A. Great Man Theory
B. Trait Theory
C. Situational Leadership Theory
D. Transactional Leadership Theory
Correct Answer:
C. Situational Leadership Theory
Rationale:
Situational Leadership Theory, developed by Hersey and Blanchard, highlights the
importance of adapting leadership styles to the developmental level and readiness of team
members.
Question 4
A nurse manager decides to implement a participative management style. Which of the
following actions demonstrates this approach?
A. Making all decisions independently.
B. Delegating tasks without explanation.
C. Encouraging staff to provide input during decision-making.
D. Setting strict rules and monitoring compliance.
Correct Answer:
C. Encouraging staff to provide input during decision-making.
Rationale:
Participative management involves engaging team members in the decision-making
process, fostering collaboration and shared responsibility.
Question 5
What is the primary focus of transactional leadership in nursing?
A. Transforming the organization through visionary change.
B. Establishing mutually beneficial agreements for task completion.
C. Developing long-term mentorship relationships.
D. Empowering staff to exceed basic job requirements.
Correct Answer:
B. Establishing mutually beneficial agreements for task completion.
Rationale:
Transactional leadership focuses on the exchange process between leaders and followers,
where clear goals and rewards are established for task completion.
