The nurse is caring for several patients on a medical unit.
Which patient does the nurse identify as being most at risk for falling?

Choice A rationale:

The nurse mistakenly calling the patient's daughter "your wife" is a communication error but does not qualify as a sentinel event. Sentinel events are serious, largely preventable patient safety incidents that result in significant harm or death to the patient. Miscommunication, while important to address, does not fall under the category of a sentinel event.

Choice B rationale:

A surgical procedure performed on the wrong leg of a patient is a classic example of a sentinel event. Wrong-site surgery is a serious medical error that can lead to severe consequences for the patient. Proper protocols and procedures, such as time-outs and site marking, are in place to prevent such incidents, making this a sentinel event that requires immediate investigation and analysis to prevent recurrence.

Choice C rationale:

The surgical procedure being postponed by 30 minutes, while potentially inconvenient, does not constitute a sentinel event. Delays in surgical schedules are not uncommon due to various reasons such as emergencies or the complexity of preceding procedures. While delays should be minimized, they do not necessarily result in patient harm or death, making them different from sentinel events.

Choice D rationale:

The nurse failing to raise the bed to a working height during patient care is a safety concern but does not qualify as a sentinel event. It is important for nurses to adhere to proper body mechanics and safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries. While this situation requires correction and education, it does not meet the criteria of a sentinel event.

Choice A rationale:

Statements provided by the patient's family are not a reliable defense against nursing negligence. While family statements can offer context, they may not always be accurate or objective. Legal defenses require concrete evidence and accurate documentation.

Choice B rationale:

Accurate documentation by the nurse is the best defense against allegations of nursing negligence. Thorough and precise documentation provides a clear account of the patient's condition, the care provided, and the patient's response. Proper documentation is essential for legal and ethical reasons and serves as a valuable defense in case of legal disputes.

Choice C rationale:

Testimony of other nurses may support the case but may not be as reliable as accurate documentation. Nurse testimony can be subjective and may vary, making it less robust as a defense compared to comprehensive and detailed documentation.

Choice D rationale:

Inclusion of expert witnesses can be helpful, but their testimony is most effective when combined with accurate documentation. Expert witnesses can provide specialized knowledge and opinions, but their credibility is enhanced when supported by thorough and precise nursing documentation.