A nurse is caring for a 25yearold male quadriplegic client. Which of the following treatments would the nurse perform to decrease the risk of joint contracture and promote joint mobility?

Choice A reason: An event that can cause serious injury to a client that should never happen in a hospital is not the best description of a sentinel event, because it is too vague and broad. It does not specify the degree of injury or the nature of the event. It also implies that some events that cause serious injury are acceptable in a hospital, which is not true.

Choice B reason: Specific events that enable a hospital to maximize reimbursement is not a description of a sentinel event, but rather a description of quality indicators or performance measures. These are criteria that reflect the quality of care provided by a hospital and affect its payment from payers. They are not related to sentinel events, which are adverse events that require immediate investigation and response.

Choice C reason: An unexpected event involving death or serious physical or psychological injury is the best description of a sentinel event, because it captures the essence and severity of the event. According to the Joint Commission, a sentinel event is "an unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury, or the risk thereof" . Examples of sentinel events include wrongsite surgery, medication error, suicide, or abduction.

Choice D reason: Operating room event involving the use of unsafe equipment is not a description of a sentinel event, but rather an example of a potential sentinel event. It is not a general definition that applies to all sentinel events, but a specific scenario that may or may not result in death or serious injury. It also does not indicate the unexpectedness of the event, which is a key characteristic of a sentinel event.

Choice A reason: Calling a chaplain is not the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The chaplain may not be available or may not be able to provide adequate support to the spouse. This choice does not address the client’s urgent medical needs or the spouse’s emotional needs.

Choice B reason: Maintaining the client’s blood pressure is the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The nurse should monitor the client’s vital signs, administer fluids and medications, and provide oxygen as ordered. This choice addresses the client’s urgent medical needs and may prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: Providing the spouse a chair is not the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The spouse may not want to sit down or may not be able to stay calm. This choice does not address the client’s urgent medical needs or the spouse’s emotional needs.

Choice D reason: Asking the client’s spouse to explain what happened is not the priority nursing action for a client who is in critical condition and hypotensive. The spouse may not be able to recall or communicate the details of the event. This choice does not address the client’s urgent medical needs or the spouse’s emotional needs.