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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ethical dilemma involves a situation in which a person is faced with conflicting moral principles, making it difficult to choose the right course of action. In this scenario, the nurse is not dealing with conflicting moral principles but rather providing information about end-of-life care options, demonstrating respect for the patient's autonomy.
Choice B rationale:
Nonmaleficence is the principle of doing no harm. While it is an important ethical principle in nursing, it does not directly apply to the situation described. The nurse is not making decisions that could harm the patient but is instead providing information and support regarding end-of-life care options.
Choice C rationale:
Autonomy refers to the right of individuals to make their own decisions about their own lives and bodies, even if those decisions are not in their best interest according to others. In this scenario, the nurse is respecting the patient's autonomy by providing information and discussing various care options, allowing the patient to make informed decisions about their end-of-life care.
Choice D rationale:
Social justice involves promoting fairness and equity in the distribution of resources and opportunities. While social justice is an important nursing value, it does not directly apply to the situation described. The nurse is primarily focused on respecting the patient's autonomy and providing information about end-of-life care options.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Applying ankle restraints but leaving the wrists unrestrained is not a balanced approach. Restraints should only be used when necessary and should be applied correctly following the healthcare facility's policies and guidelines. Applying restraints to one part of the body while leaving another unrestrained can lead to injuries and is not a safe practice.
Choice B rationale:
Tying a double knot that is difficult to undo can be dangerous in emergency situations. Restraints should allow for quick release in case of emergencies, ensuring patient safety. Difficult-to-undo knots can delay the removal of restraints, leading to potential harm to the patient.
Choice C rationale:
Tying a slip knot to the side rails of the bed is unsafe and against restraint protocols. Slip knots can tighten when pulled, increasing the risk of injury to the patient. Restraints should be applied to designated areas and never tied to movable parts of the bed or other objects in the room.
Choice D rationale:
Checking on the patient frequently is the most appropriate action when a patient is in restraints. Regular monitoring ensures the patient's safety and well-being, assesses their comfort, and allows for prompt response to any signs of distress or discomfort. Frequent checks also help in preventing complications associated with immobilization, such as pressure ulcers and impaired circulation.
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