Additional Case 6.1 Central Enterprises Is Suffering an Economic Downturn, and the Workforce

question 29

Multiple Choice

Additional Case 6.1
Central Enterprises is suffering an economic downturn, and the workforce needs to be reduced. Upper-level managers are debating the costs and benefits of various employee separations. Brian argues that the company needs to make immediate cuts to both management and labor. The cuts need to be made in such a way that the scope of the company and its markets are not affected. The firm needs to do more with fewer people according to Brian.
Other managers want to take a long-term, less traumatic approach. According to Natalie, the firm has time to consider the problems and gradually reduce the workforce rather than making sudden staff cuts. Natalie points out that 35% of the workforce is over age 62.
The VP of HR, LaTisha, wants the least disruptive reduction process possible. LaTisha just finished a major labor negotiation with the union and is not ready for another. She points out that turnover has been fairly high. Along with considering workforce reductions, LaTisha wants to know why people are leaving the company voluntarily.
-Refer to Additional Case 6.1.Which of the following layoff alternatives would LaTisha most likely support?

• A) Implementing a hiring freeze
• B) Instituting pay cuts
• C) Offering job sharing
• D) Retraining workers

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Definitions:

Respiratory Rate

This is the number of breaths taken per minute and is an important vital sign in assessing a person's respiratory health.

Hypoxia

A condition where the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply at the tissue level, which can cause various health risks.

Bluish Discoloration

A change in skin color to a blue or purple shade, typically due to poor oxygenation of the blood, known medically as cyanosis.

Oral Mucosa

The moist tissue lining of the mouth, which plays a key role in protecting oral surfaces and facilitating digestion.