What is public administration and why is it important for nursing practice? (2 marks) Public administration is the process of implementing public policies and delivering public services by government agencies and other organizations. It is important for nursing practice because it affects the quality, accessibility, affordability, and accountability of health care services for patients and communities. (2 marks) What are the main components of the policy cycle and how do they relate to nursing practice? (4 marks) The main components of the policy cycle are agenda setting, policy formulation, policy adoption, policy implementation, and policy evaluation. They relate to nursing practice in different ways, such as: - Agenda setting: Nurses can identify and prioritize health problems and needs, and advocate for them to be included in the policy agenda. - Policy formulation: Nurses can participate in the development of policy alternatives and solutions, and provide evidence-based input and feedback. - Policy adoption: Nurses can influence the decision-making process of policy makers and stakeholders, and support or oppose certain policy options. - Policy implementation: Nurses can facilitate or hinder the execution of policy actions and programs, and monitor and report their outcomes and impacts. - Policy evaluation: Nurses can assess the effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and sustainability of policy interventions, and suggest improvements or modifications. (4 marks) What are the main types of administrative organizations and what are their advantages and disadvantages? (4 marks) The main types of administrative organizations are: - Hierarchical: A vertical structure with a clear chain of command and control, where authority flows from top to bottom. The advantages are that it provides clarity, consistency, coordination, and accountability. The disadvantages are that it may be rigid, bureaucratic, slow, and resistant to change. - Flat: A horizontal structure with a high degree of decentralization and autonomy, where authority is shared among different units or individuals. The advantages are that it fosters flexibility, innovation, responsiveness, and empowerment. The disadvantages are that it may cause confusion, conflict, duplication, and inefficiency. - Matrix: A hybrid structure with a combination of vertical and horizontal elements, where authority is distributed along functional and project lines. The advantages are that it allows for specialization, integration, collaboration, and adaptation. The disadvantages are that it may create complexity, ambiguity, tension, and competition. (4 marks)