A nurse is teaching a client about the importance of reporting any medication errors that may occur during hospitalization. Which of the following statements by the client indicates a need for further education?

This statement shows that the nursing student understands the importance of reporting errors or near misses, which are events that could have resulted in harm but did not. Reporting errors or near misses helps to identify system failures, root causes, and contributing factors that can be addressed to prevent similar errors in the future. Reporting errors or near misses also fosters a culture of safety, transparency, and learning in healthcare organizations.

Incorrect choices:

a) I should follow my intuition when making clinical decisions: This statement shows that the nursing student does not understand how intuition can lead to cognitive biases, heuristics, or shortcuts that can impair clinical reasoning and judgment. Intuition can be influenced by emotions, assumptions, stereotypes, or previous experiences that may not be relevant or applicable to the current situation. Nursing students should use evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and clinical guidelines when making clinical decisions.

b) I should use abbreviations and acronyms to save time when documenting: This statement shows that the nursing student does not understand how abbreviations and acronyms can cause communication errors, confusion, or misinterpretation among health care providers. Abbreviations and acronyms can have multiple meanings, vary by context or setting, or be easily mistaken for other words or symbols. Nursing students should use clear, concise, and standardized terminology when documenting.

d) I should work longer shifts to reduce handoffs and transitions of care: This statement shows that the nursing student does not understand how working longer shifts can increase fatigue, stress, burnout, or distraction among health care providers. Working longer shifts can impair physical, mental, and emotional well-being, as well as performance, attention, memory, and decision-making skills. Nursing students should work reasonable hours, take breaks, and ensure adequate rest and sleep. They should also use effective handoff techniques, such as SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation).

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.