The nurse is reviewing research articles about 'sentinel events' in health care.
Which is an example of a 'sentinel event?".
The nurse mistakenly calls the patient's daughter "your wife.”.
A surgical procedure performed on the wrong leg of a patient.
The surgical procedure is postponed by 30 minutes.
The nurse fails to raise the bed to a working height during patient care.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
The nurse mistakenly calling the patient's daughter "your wife" is a communication error but does not qualify as a sentinel event. Sentinel events are serious, largely preventable patient safety incidents that result in significant harm or death to the patient. Miscommunication, while important to address, does not fall under the category of a sentinel event.
Choice B rationale:
A surgical procedure performed on the wrong leg of a patient is a classic example of a sentinel event. Wrong-site surgery is a serious medical error that can lead to severe consequences for the patient. Proper protocols and procedures, such as time-outs and site marking, are in place to prevent such incidents, making this a sentinel event that requires immediate investigation and analysis to prevent recurrence.
Choice C rationale:
The surgical procedure being postponed by 30 minutes, while potentially inconvenient, does not constitute a sentinel event. Delays in surgical schedules are not uncommon due to various reasons such as emergencies or the complexity of preceding procedures. While delays should be minimized, they do not necessarily result in patient harm or death, making them different from sentinel events.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse failing to raise the bed to a working height during patient care is a safety concern but does not qualify as a sentinel event. It is important for nurses to adhere to proper body mechanics and safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries. While this situation requires correction and education, it does not meet the criteria of a sentinel event.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
No explanation
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Electronic medical records being available even during a power outage is a significant advantage. This ensures healthcare providers can access critical patient information, which is essential for patient safety and continuity of care, especially during emergencies.
Choice B rationale:
Timely documentation is facilitated by electronic charting, as it eliminates the delays associated with manual paperwork. Healthcare providers can input data efficiently, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring that the patient's information is up-to-date.
Choice C rationale:
The patient's electronic medical record being available to all members of the healthcare team simultaneously promotes collaborative and coordinated care. This real-time access enables healthcare professionals to make informed decisions based on the most recent patient data, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Choice D rationale:
Continuous updates in the electronic medical record system enhance continuity of care. The ability to access the most recent information ensures that all healthcare providers are aware of the patient's current status, ongoing treatments, and any changes in their condition. This knowledge is vital for delivering safe and effective care.
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