A nurse is providing teaching with a nursing colleague about sentinel events. Which of the following statements by the nursing colleague indicates an understanding?
"An example of a sentinel event is administering incompatible blood products to a client."
"An example of a sentinel event is administering client medications 30 minutes late."
"An example of a sentinel event is documenting vital signs at the wrong time in the client's electronic health record."
"An example of a sentinel event is administering a prescribed sedative to a client for insomnia."
The Correct Answer is A
A. Administering incompatible blood products is a significant medical error that can result in severe patient harm, including hemolytic transfusion reactions, which can be life-threatening. This type of incident qualifies as a sentinel event because it involves serious injury or death and necessitates immediate investigation and corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
B. While administering medications late is a medication error and can affect patient outcomes, it does not typically qualify as a sentinel event unless it results in serious harm or death. Sentinel events are generally those with more severe consequences or potential for significant harm.
C. Documenting vital signs at the wrong time is a documentation error and could potentially lead to issues in patient care. However, it is not classified as a sentinel event unless it results in significant harm or jeopardizes the patient's safety.
D. Administering a prescribed sedative for insomnia, when done according to a valid prescription and proper protocols, is a routine medical intervention and does not typically constitute a sentinel event. Sentinel events involve unexpected and serious outcomes rather than standard clinical procedures when performed correctly.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. This would not be appropriate as both scabies and pediculosis capitis are contagious skin infestations. Placing these clients together increases the risk of cross-contamination.
B. Positive-pressure isolation rooms are used for clients with compromised immune systems to protect them from pathogens. This is not necessary for a client with scabies.
C. A private room is the most appropriate choice for a client with scabies to prevent the spread of the infestation.
D. Negative-pressure isolation rooms are used for clients with airborne diseases to prevent the spread of pathogens. This is not necessary for a client with scabies.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hospice care focuses on providing comfort and quality of life rather than curative treatment. The goal is to manage symptoms and provide supportive care when a cure is no longer possible. Therefore, hospice care typically does not include aggressive treatments.
B. Hospice care is generally initiated when a prognosis indicates that the client is expected to have 6 months or less to live if the illness runs its usual course. The 2-year timeframe mentioned here is too long for standard hospice eligibility, which is based on a more immediate prognosis of terminal illness.
C. Hospice care services often include respite care, which provides caregivers with temporary relief from their caregiving duties. This respite allows caregivers to take personal time, recharge, and manage their own needs, which is an important aspect of supporting those who are caring for terminally ill patients.
D. While hospice care does involve communication with the family about the client's care and condition, the primary focus of hospice care is on providing comfort and support to the patient.
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