A nurse is conducting a root cause analysis of a medication error that occurred in their unit. Which of the following steps should the nurse take first?

Identify all the factors that contributed to the error

Implement corrective actions to prevent the recurrence of the error

Communicate the findings and recommendations to the staff and stakeholders

Gather information and evidence about the error

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

The first step in a root cause analysis is to collect data and facts about what happened, when, where, how, and why. This includes interviewing the staff involved, reviewing medical records, policies, procedures, and protocols, and examining equipment and environmental factors. Gathering information and evidence helps to establish a timeline and a causal chain of events that led to the error.

Incorrect choices:

a) Identify all the factors that contributed to the error: This is a later step in a root cause analysis, after gathering information and evidence. Identifying contributing factors helps to determine the underlying causes and system failures that allowed the error to occur.

b) Implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence of the error: This is another later step in a root cause analysis, after identifying contributing factors. Implementing corrective actions involves developing and testing solutions that address the root causes and improve patient safety.

c) Communicate the findings and recommendations to the staff and stakeholders: This is the final step in a root cause analysis, after implementing corrective actions. Communicating the findings and recommendations involves sharing lessons learned, best practices, and feedback with those who are affected by or involved in preventing similar errors.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

This statement shows that the client does not understand the potential consequences of medication errors, even if they seem minor. Minor errors can lead to serious adverse events, such as allergic reactions, drug interactions, or overdoses. The client should be informed that all medication errors should be reported and documented to prevent further harm and improve patient safety.

Incorrect choices:

a) I should tell you if I notice any unusual symptoms after taking my medication: This statement shows that the client understands the importance of monitoring for adverse reactions and communicating with the nurse.

b) I should check the label of the medication before I take it: This statement shows that the client is aware of their role in preventing medication errors by verifying the name, dose, and route of the medication.

d) I should ask questions if I am not sure about the purpose or side effects of the medication: This statement shows that the client is willing to seek clarification and education about their medication regimen.

A. Dispose of the expired or unused medications in a trash can B. Return the expired or unused medications to a pharmacy or a drug take-back program C. Advise the client to keep the expired or unused medications for future use D. Flush the expired or unused medications down a toilet or a sink

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

This is the safest and most environmentally friendly way to dispose of expired or unused medications. It prevents accidental ingestion, misuse, abuse, or diversion of medications by others. It also reduces the risk of contamination of water sources or soil by pharmaceuticals.

Incorrect choices:

a) Dispose of the expired or unused medications in a trash can: This is not a safe way to dispose of expired or unused medications. It can expose others, such as children, pets, or scavengers, to potentially harmful substances. It can also allow medications to leach into landfills or groundwater.

c) Advise the client to keep the expired or unused medications for future use: This is not a safe way to manage expired or unused medications. It can lead to medication errors, such as taking the wrong medication, the wrong dose, or an ineffective or harmful medication. It can also encourage self medication or sharing of medications with others without medical supervision.

d) Flush the expired or unused medications down a toilet or a sink: This is not an environmentally friendly way to dispose of expired or unused medications. It can contaminate water sources or aquatic life with pharmaceuticals. It can also damage plumbing or sewage systems.

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A nurse is conducting a root cause analysis of a medication error that occurred in their unit. Which of the following steps should the nurse take first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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A nurse is conducting a root cause analysis of a medication error that occurred in their unit. Which of the following steps should the nurse take first?