Examination 2026–2027 | 190 Questions & Answers | Nursing
Leadership & Management, Next Generation NCLEX-Style Practice
Test, RN Pre-Licensure Exam Prep, Comprehensive Study Guide,
Detailed Rationales, Clinical Judgment, Delegation, Prioritization &
Complete Exam Review
Question 1
A nurse manager is leading a unit through a major electronic health record transition.
Staff members are anxious and resistant to change. Which leadership style would be
most effective during this initial phase of change?
A. Laissez-faire leadership
B. Transformational leadership
C. Autocratic leadership
D. Bureaucratic leadership
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Transformational leadership inspires and motivates staff through a shared
vision, effectively reducing resistance during change. It builds trust and commitment
during transitions.
Question 2
During a code blue, the charge nurse assigns tasks rapidly and expects immediate
compliance without discussion. Which leadership style is being demonstrated?
A. Democratic
B. Situational
,C. Autocratic
D. Servant
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Autocratic leadership is appropriate in emergencies when rapid, clear
directives are essential for patient safety and team coordination.
Question 3
A nurse manager consistently seeks input from staff before making decisions affecting
unit workflow. This manager demonstrates which leadership style?
A. Autocratic
B. Democratic
C. Laissez-faire
D. Transactional
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Democratic leadership involves staff in decision-making, increasing
satisfaction and ownership. It works well when time permits collaborative planning.
Question 4
A newly hired nurse manager notices that experienced nurses on the unit resist new
protocols. Which action best demonstrates transformational leadership?
A. Threatening disciplinary action for noncompliance
B. Ignoring the resistance until it resolves
C. Articulating a compelling vision and mentoring staff through the change
,D. Implementing the protocols without explanation
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Transformational leaders inspire change through vision, individualized
consideration, and intellectual stimulation, fostering intrinsic motivation rather than
fear.
Question 5
Which leadership theory suggests that effective leaders adapt their style based on
follower readiness and task complexity?
A. Trait theory
B. Situational leadership theory
C. Great man theory
D. Behavioral theory
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Situational leadership theory, developed by Hersey and Blanchard,
proposes that leaders adjust their style based on follower maturity and task demands.
Question 6
A nurse manager who focuses on rewarding good performance and correcting poor
performance is demonstrating which leadership style?
A. Transformational
B. Transactional
C. Servant
, D. Charismatic
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Transactional leadership relies on exchanges—rewards for good
performance and consequences for poor performance—maintaining status quo
efficiently.
Question 7
A charge nurse notices a new graduate struggling with time management. Which
leadership approach is most appropriate?
A. Laissez-faire, allowing the nurse to figure it out independently
B. Coaching and guiding the nurse with specific strategies
C. Reporting the nurse to the manager immediately
D. Reassigning all the nurse's patients
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Situational leadership suggests coaching followers with low competence
but high commitment. Guiding new graduates builds skill and confidence.
Question 8
Which characteristic is most associated with servant leadership in nursing?
A. Prioritizing organizational profits
B. Putting the needs of staff and patients first
C. Maintaining strict hierarchical control
D. Avoiding collaboration with interdisciplinary teams