What is a sentinel event in healthcare?
A common adverse event that occurs frequently.
A minor incident that does not require reporting.
An unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury.
A situation where the patient experiences temporary discomfort.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A common adverse event that occurs frequently is not considered a sentinel event. Sentinel events are rare and unexpected occurrences that result in severe harm or death. Common adverse events, while important to address, do not meet the criteria for sentinel events.
Choice B rationale
A minor incident that does not require reporting is not considered a sentinel event. Sentinel events are serious and significant occurrences that require immediate investigation and response. Minor incidents, while important to address, do not meet the criteria for sentinel events.
Choice C rationale
An unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury is the definition of a sentinel event. These events are significant and require immediate investigation and response to prevent recurrence. Sentinel events signal the need for a thorough review of the processes and systems involved to identify and address the root causes.
Choice D rationale
A situation where the patient experiences temporary discomfort is not considered a sentinel event. Sentinel events involve severe and lasting harm, such as death or permanent injury.
Temporary discomfort, while important to address, does not meet the criteria for sentinel events.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An advance directive is a legal document that outlines a patient’s wishes regarding medical treatment in situations where they are unable to communicate their decisions. It includes instructions on life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and other medical interventions. This ensures that the patient’s preferences are respected and followed by healthcare providers.
Choice B rationale
A document that specifies the final arrangements for the patient is not an advance directive. Final arrangements typically refer to funeral and burial plans, which are not related to medical treatment decisions. Advance directives focus on medical care and treatment preferences.
Choice C rationale
A legal document that designates a person to make healthcare decisions for the patient is known as a durable power of attorney for healthcare or healthcare proxy. While this is an important component of advance care planning, it is not the same as an advance directive. An advance directive specifically outlines the patient’s treatment preferences.
Choice D rationale
A legal document that communicates the patient’s wishes regarding their care is a broader description that can include various types of advance care planning documents. However, the best description of an advance directive is a document that outlines the patient’s wishes regarding medical treatment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assault refers to the threat of harm or unwanted physical contact, not the actual administration of medication. In this case, the nurse’s action resulted in actual harm, which is more aligned with negligence.
Choice B rationale
Battery involves intentional physical contact without consent, such as forcibly administering medication. However, this scenario involves an error rather than intentional harm, making negligence a more appropriate term.
Choice C rationale
Negligence occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. Administering the wrong medication is a clear example of negligence, as it demonstrates a failure to follow proper procedures and protocols.
Choice D rationale
Invasion of privacy involves the unauthorized disclosure of personal information, which is not relevant to the scenario of administering the wrong medication.
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