A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about incident reports.
Which of the following information should the nurse include?

The correct answer is: A

Choice A reason: Providing the nurse administering medications with an identifying vest can help reduce medication errors by making it easier for other staff and patients to identify the nurse responsible for medication administration. This can minimize interruptions and distractions, which are common causes of medication errors. It also serves as a visual reminder to the nurse of their critical role in medication safety.

Choice B reason: Removing medications from automatic dispensing systems before they are reviewed by pharmacists is not a recommended practice. Pharmacists play a crucial role in reviewing prescriptions for accuracy and potential drug interactions before dispensing. Therefore, medications should remain in the dispensing system until they have been properly reviewed and approved by a pharmacist.

Choice C reason: Waiting to document medications given to clients until the end of a shift is not advisable. Accurate and timely documentation is essential in healthcare, particularly when it comes to medication administration. Documentation should occur as soon as the medication is given to ensure that all healthcare providers have up-to-date information and to prevent errors such as omissions or duplications.

Choice D reason: Preparing medications for multiple clients at the same time increases the risk of errors, such as mix-ups between patients or incorrect dosing. It is best practice to prepare and administer medications for one client at a time, following the ‘five rights’ of medication administration: the right patient, the right drug, the right dose, the right route, and the right time.

Choice A rationale:

TJC (The Joint Commission) does not provide licensure for healthcare providers. Licensing is typically issued by state regulatory bodies, and it ensures that healthcare professionals meet the minimum qualifications and standards to practice within their respective states. TJC's role is different from providing licensure.

Choice B rationale:

TJC is primarily responsible for accrediting healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, to ensure that they meet specific quality and safety standards. Accreditation by TJC is a mark of quality and demonstrates that the facility complies with nationally recognized healthcare standards.

Choice C rationale:

TJC is not a for-profit organization. It is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality and safety. It does not seek to generate profits but rather focuses on enhancing the quality of care provided to patients.

Choice D rationale:

TJC is not an organization that monitors insurance claims. Monitoring insurance claims is typically the responsibility of insurance companies and regulatory agencies. TJC's primary role is to assess and accredit healthcare facilities to promote patient safety and quality care.