A nurse's inadvertent medication error results in a severe allergic reaction and prolongs the client's hospitalization. The client could rightfully sue the nurse for which of the following?

Explanation:

A. Standardization:

Standardization involves developing and implementing standardized protocols, procedures, or guidelines for specific aspects of client care. This can include standardizing processes such as medication administration, wound care, or infection control practices. The goal of standardization is to promote consistency, reduce variability, enhance quality, and improve safety in healthcare delivery.

B. Root cause analysis:

Root cause analysis (RCA) is a systematic process used to identify underlying causes or contributing factors that lead to adverse events, errors, or problems in healthcare. It involves investigating incidents thoroughly, identifying the primary cause (or root cause), analyzing contributing factors, and developing corrective actions or strategies to prevent similar occurrences in the future. RCA aims to address the underlying issues rather than just treating the symptoms of a problem.

C. Benchmarking:

Benchmarking involves comparing an organization's performance, practices, or outcomes against established standards or best practices in the industry. It allows healthcare providers to assess their performance relative to peers or recognized benchmarks and identify areas for improvement. Benchmarking can be used to set performance goals, track progress, identify best practices, and drive quality improvement initiatives.

D. Evidence-based practice (EBP):

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is a systematic approach to clinical decision-making that integrates the best available research evidence with clinical expertise and patient preferences. It involves critically appraising research literature, applying valid and relevant evidence to clinical practice, considering individual patient characteristics and preferences, and evaluating outcomes to inform and improve care delivery. EBP aims to ensure that healthcare decisions are based on current best evidence, promote effective interventions, and enhance patient outcomes.

Explanation:

A. Arrange referral for family therapy to deal with home stressors:

While family therapy may be beneficial for addressing home stressors, it is not the first step when there is a suspicion of physical abuse. The priority in cases of suspected abuse is to ensure the client's safety and to report the suspicion to the appropriate authorities.

B. Follow the agency's guidelines for reporting suspected abuse:

This is the correct action to take first. Nurses are mandated reporters, and they must follow their agency's protocols and legal requirements for reporting suspected abuse. Reporting ensures that the client's situation is investigated promptly, and appropriate interventions are implemented to protect the client.

C. Check the bruises at the next visit to the client's home:

Delaying action and waiting until the next visit to check the bruises is not appropriate in cases of suspected abuse. Immediate action is necessary to address the safety of the client. Suspected abuse should be reported promptly to the relevant authorities for investigation.

D. Institute more frequent visits to the client's home:

Increasing the frequency of visits may not address the immediate safety concerns of the client if abuse is suspected. While increased monitoring may be necessary in certain situations, reporting the suspicion of abuse and initiating appropriate interventions should take precedence.