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 B
Explanation
A. Negligence involves failing to provide care that a reasonably prudent person would, resulting in harm. Leaving a computer terminal unattended, while not ideal, doesn't necessarily rise to the level of negligence unless it leads to a specific harm.
B. This is the most accurate choice. Leaving a computer terminal unattended with login credentials accessible to others is a breach of confidentiality and security protocols, which are fundamental aspects of professional nursing practice.
C. Malpractice is professional negligence. While leaving a computer unattended could potentially lead to a breach of patient privacy, it doesn't inherently constitute malpractice unless it results in harm to a patient.
D. Defamation involves making false statements that harm someone's reputation. Leaving a computer unattended is not related to defamation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This is not a time management strategy but rather a counterproductive approach that can lead to burnout and decreased focus.
B. This is an effective time management strategy as it acknowledges the reality of interruptions in a healthcare setting. By anticipating and planning for disruptions, nurses can better manage their workload and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
C. While helping colleagues is important, offering to complete another nurse's task without considering one's own workload can lead to time management issues.
D. This can be a time management strategy in some situations, but it's not always the most effective approach. Prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance is often more beneficial.
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