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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. A case manager coordinates and manages the overall care of the client, particularly when there are multiple healthcare needs or transitions in care. Given that the client has just experienced a CVA, the case manager could be crucial in coordinating care, arranging for additional services, and ensuring continuity of care, especially since the client lives alone.
B. The client is experiencing wheezing in the upper lobes of the lungs and is receiving supplemental oxygen. A respiratory therapist would be instrumental in evaluating and managing the client's respiratory status, including optimizing oxygen therapy and addressing any issues related to asthma or lung function.
C. There is no mention of diabetes in the client's history or current symptoms. The focus of the client's care is on managing the effects of the CVA and respiratory issues. Therefore, a referral to a diabetes nurse educator is not indicated based on the provided information.
D. The client has flaccid extremities with decreased muscle tone and strength following the CVA. A physical therapist would be essential for assessing and providing therapy to improve mobility, strength, and function in the affected extremities. This referral is appropriate for addressing the physical impairments resulting from the CVA.
E. The client is having difficulty with self-feeding due to decreased muscle tone and strength, which impacts daily activities. An occupational therapist can help with adaptive techniques and strategies for self-care tasks, such as feeding, and provide interventions to improve the client’s ability to perform daily activities independently. This referral is appropriate for addressing functional challenges related to the CVA.
F. An enterostomal therapy nurse specializes in wound care, ostomy management, and incontinence care. There is no indication in the provided information that the client has any issues related to wounds, ostomies, or incontinence. Therefore, a referral to an enterostomal therapy nurse is not indicated based on the current information.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Speaking to a provider on behalf of a client can be part of a nurse's advocacy role, but it is not specifically an example of responsibility. Advocacy involves representing the client's needs and preferences, but the action itself is more about advocacy than personal responsibility.
B. Performing hand hygiene before caring for a client is a fundamental practice that falls under the responsibility of ensuring infection control and maintaining patient safety. It is a key aspect of professional responsibility as it directly impacts the prevention of healthcare-associated infections and upholding high standards of patient care.
C. Contacting a social worker for a client who needs help with finances is part of the nurse's role in coordinating care and addressing the client's needs holistically. It reflects the nurse’s responsibility to ensure that the client receives comprehensive support, but it is more about care coordination rather than the direct personal responsibility in care delivery.
D. Supporting a client's decision to discontinue treatment is related to respecting patient autonomy and ethical principles. While it is a critical aspect of patient-centered care, it represents the nurse's role in advocacy and ethical practice rather than a direct example of personal responsibility in routine tasks.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.