What is a sentinel event in healthcare?

A common adverse event that occurs frequently.

A minor incident that does not require reporting.

An unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury.

A situation where the patient experiences temporary discomfort.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale
A common adverse event that occurs frequently is not considered a sentinel event. Sentinel events are rare and unexpected occurrences that result in severe harm or death. Common adverse events, while important to address, do not meet the criteria for sentinel events.
Choice B rationale
A minor incident that does not require reporting is not considered a sentinel event. Sentinel events are serious and significant occurrences that require immediate investigation and response. Minor incidents, while important to address, do not meet the criteria for sentinel events.
Choice C rationale
An unexpected occurrence involving death or serious physical or psychological injury is the definition of a sentinel event. These events are significant and require immediate investigation and response to prevent recurrence. Sentinel events signal the need for a thorough review of the processes and systems involved to identify and address the root causes.
Choice D rationale
A situation where the patient experiences temporary discomfort is not considered a sentinel event. Sentinel events involve severe and lasting harm, such as death or permanent injury.
Temporary discomfort, while important to address, does not meet the criteria for sentinel events.

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Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
A patient who experiences postural hypotension is at a higher risk for falls. Postural hypotension, or a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, can cause dizziness and increase the likelihood of falling. This condition is common in older adults and those with certain medical conditions.
Choice B rationale
A patient who is experiencing nausea from chemotherapy is not necessarily at a higher risk for falls. While nausea can cause discomfort and weakness, it does not directly contribute to an increased risk of falling. Other factors, such as medication side effects or balance issues, are more significant in fall risk assessment.
Choice C rationale

A patient who has already fallen twice is at a higher risk for future falls. A history of falls is a strong predictor of subsequent falls, as it may indicate underlying issues such as balance problems, muscle weakness, or environmental hazards.
Choice D rationale
A patient who is older than 50 years old is not automatically at a higher risk for falls. While age is a factor, the risk significantly increases for individuals over 65 years old. Other factors, such as medical conditions and medication use, play a more critical role in fall risk assessment.
Choice E rationale
A patient who is transferred to long-term care is at a higher risk for falls. The transition to a new environment can be disorienting, and patients may be unfamiliar with their surroundings. Additionally, long-term care patients often have multiple health issues that contribute to an increased fall risk.

A. Facial expressions are an example of non-verbal communication. B. Verbal communication is often an accurate reflection of what the client really feels. C. Nonverbal communication accurately reflects what the client is saying. D. An example of verbal communication is body posture.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Facial expressions are indeed an example of non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, and eye contact. These cues can provide significant insights into a client’s feelings and attitudes.
Choice B rationale
Verbal communication is not always an accurate reflection of what the client really feels. Clients may sometimes say what they think the nurse wants to hear or may not fully express their true feelings verbally.
Choice C rationale
Nonverbal communication often reflects what the client is truly feeling more accurately than verbal communication. For example, a client may say they are not in pain, but their body language, such as grimacing or guarding a body part, may indicate otherwise.
Choice D rational
Body posture is an example of non-verbal communication, not verbal communication. Verbal communication involves spoken or written words, while non-verbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, and other physical cues.

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What is a sentinel event in healthcare?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse caring for patients in a long-term care facility knows that there are factors that place certain patients at a higher risk for falls. Which patients would the nurse consider to be in this category? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]

Explanation

A nurse is observing a client’s verbal and nonverbal behavior. Which principles influence communication?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a group of clients on a medical-surgical unit. Which client should the nurse see first?

A healthcare provider accidentally discloses a patient’s regulations. What should the provider do first according to HIPAA?

Which of the following best defines false imprisonment?

The nurse is checking the client’s blood sugar before administering insulin to a diabetic client. Which part of the nursing process is being fulfilled?

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To verify the correct patient, procedure, and surgery, which of the following should be done?

What type of research is a nurse conducting if they are using a quasi-experimental design?

Which of the following is NOT a type of advance directive?