The nurse is reviewing research articles about 'sentinel events' in health care.
Which is an example of a 'sentinel event?".
The nurse mistakenly calls the patient's daughter "your wife.”.
A surgical procedure performed on the wrong leg of a patient.
The surgical procedure is postponed by 30 minutes.
The nurse fails to raise the bed to a working height during patient care.
The Correct Answer is B
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse is not responsible since the nurse was following the doctor's orders. Rationale: While it is essential for nurses to follow physician orders, they also have a responsibility to assess the appropriateness and safety of those orders. If the nurse administers a medication that is clearly harmful or beyond the normal dosage, they have a duty to question the order and seek clarification from the physician. Administering a medication that is twice the normal dosage without questioning the order would be a breach of the nurse's responsibility.
Choice B rationale:
Only the nurse was responsible since the nurse administered the medication. Rationale: While the nurse did administer the medication, the ultimate responsibility lies with both the nurse and the physician. The nurse should have questioned the order if it appeared to be incorrect or unsafe. Nurses are advocates for their patients and have a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of those under their care.
Choice C rationale:
Both the nurse and the physician are responsible for the error. Rationale: This is the correct choice. Both the nurse and the physician share responsibility for the error. The nurse should have questioned the order, and the physician should have prescribed the correct dosage. Patient safety is a collaborative effort, and both healthcare providers are accountable for ensuring that the patient receives appropriate and safe care.
Choice D rationale:
Only the physician is responsible since he or she ordered the drug. Rationale: While the physician did order the drug, the nurse also has a responsibility to assess the order and question it if necessary. Nurses are trained to use their clinical judgment and critical thinking skills to ensure the safety of their patients. If the nurse administers a medication without questioning a clearly incorrect dosage, they share responsibility for the error.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Sharing a positive and educational experience, such as witnessing a lung transplant, demonstrates enthusiasm for the nursing profession and a willingness to learn. It also respects patient privacy as it doesn't disclose any patient's personal information. This kind of post reflects professionalism and genuine interest in the field.
Choice B rationale:
Posting about working with prisoners from the federal prison can be inappropriate and breach patient confidentiality. It is essential to respect patients' privacy and not disclose sensitive information on social media platforms. Sharing such information can lead to legal and ethical consequences.
Choice C rationale:
Posting about having a great day at clinical is a positive and general statement. However, it lacks specific details and does not contribute significantly to the professional image of the nursing student. While it is not necessarily inappropriate, sharing more educational and insightful experiences would be more beneficial.
Choice D rationale:
Posting negative comments about the food at XYZ Hospital is unprofessional and disrespectful. It reflects negatively on the hospital and could damage professional relationships. Additionally, it does not contribute to the nursing student's growth or demonstrate any meaningful engagement with the nursing profession.
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.