A nurse manager is reviewing the rate of medication errors on a surgical floor and finds that it is 20% above the national average. Which of the following actions should the nurse manager take?
Observe staff medication administration procedures.
Require staff to complete a medication administration review module.
Identify data that should be collected related to medication errors.
Re-evaluate staff performance in relation to the established standard.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Observe staff medication administration procedures: While observation can provide valuable insights into workflow and potential areas for improvement, it may not address the underlying causes of medication errors or provide comprehensive data for quality improvement efforts.
B. Require staff to complete a medication administration review module: Education and training are important components of improving medication safety, but they may not be the most
immediate or effective response to addressing an elevated rate of medication errors.
C. Identify data that should be collected related to medication errors: This is the correct answer.
Before implementing interventions to address medication errors, it is important to gather comprehensive data on the types, causes, and frequency of errors. This data will help identify specific areas for improvement and guide the development of targeted interventions.
D. Re-evaluate staff performance in relation to the established standard: While ongoing evaluation of staff performance is important for maintaining quality care, it may not be the most appropriate first step when addressing an elevated rate of medication errors. Gathering data on medication errors and their contributing factors is essential for understanding the root causes of the problem and developing effective solutions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Reinforce the potential consequences of not having this information on record to the nursing staff: While reinforcing the importance of advance directives is necessary, the immediate priority is to ensure that missing information is obtained.
B. Ask nurses who are caring for clients without this information in the medical record to obtain it: This is the correct answer. The priority action is to address the missing documentation by
instructing nurses to obtain advance directive information from clients who lack it in their medical records.
C. Meet with nursing staff to review the policy regarding advance directives: While policy review may be necessary, it is not the immediate action needed to address the missing documentation.
D. Remind nurses to obtain this information during the admission process: While obtaining advance directive information during the admission process is important, the priority is to address the missing documentation for current clients.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Consult the pharmacist about the client's prescribed medications: While consulting the pharmacist may provide valuable information about the medications, it may not be the first action to take in this scenario.
B. Call the provider to clarify the client's prescribed medications: While it may be necessary to clarify the client's medications with the provider, it may not be the first action to take, especially if there are discrepancies in the documentation.
C. Compare the client's medication administration record with the prescriptions on the transfer orders: This is the correct answer. Comparing the client's medication administration record with the prescriptions on the transfer orders can help identify any discrepancies or errors in medication administration, ensuring patient safety and adherence to prescribed therapy.
D. Review the intended purpose of the prescribed medications with the client: While reviewing the intended purpose of the medications with the client is important for informed decision-making, it may not be the first action to take if there are concerns about the accuracy or appropriateness of the prescribed medications.
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