Patient Safety Basics
What is the first step in ensuring patient safety during an encounter with a patient?
Verify the patient's identity using two identifiers.
How long should you wash your hands to ensure proper hygiene?
At least 20 seconds.
What does HIPAA stand for?
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
What is the name of our incident reporting software?
Incident Tracker
What is the purpose of an emergency drill?
To prepare staff for real emergencies and improve response times.
Why is maintaining clear and accurate patient records important for safety?
It ensures continuity of care and reduces the risk of errors.
What is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections?
Hand hygiene.
What is considered "protected health information" (PHI) under HIPAA?
Any information that relates to a patient's health, treatment, or payment that can be used to identify them.
Who can file an incident report?
Any staff member.
What should you do if you see a fire in the building?
Immediately pull the nearest fire alarm and call 911.
What is one example of a “near miss” in patient safety?
Catching a medication error before it reaches the patient.
What is the correct way to dispose of a used needle?
Place it immediately into a designated sharps container without recapping.
What is the purpose of a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) in relation to HIPAA?
To ensure that third-party vendors handling PHI comply with HIPAA privacy and security requirements.
What should be included in an incident report?
A clear description of the event, the individuals involved, actions taken, and any corrective measures implemented.
Where can you find a copy of the emergency operations plan?
On Sharepoint under Policies & Procedures. Additionally, there are binders located with each manager and throughout the building.
What does the acronym “SBAR” stand for in communication?
Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation.
What is a healthcare-associated infection (HAI)?
An infection acquired by a patient during the course of receiving treatment for other conditions in a healthcare setting.
What is a "breach" under HIPAA?
The unauthorized access, disclosure, or use of PHI that compromises its privacy or security.
How should confidential patient information be handled when reporting an incident?
Only include the minimum necessary information, and ensure the report is kept confidential.
How many fire extinguishers are located on each floor?
3
What does a “culture of safety” mean in a healthcare setting?
An environment where staff feel comfortable reporting errors or concerns without fear of punishment, focusing on learning and improvement.
What infection risks are associated with improper handling of needles in patients with substance use disorders?
Increased risk of bloodborne infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
What is the difference between "privacy" and "security" in the context of HIPAA?
Privacy refers to how patient information is handled, while security refers to the safeguards that protect it from unauthorized access or breaches.
What is an example of a "near miss" that should be reported?
A medication error that was caught before it was administered to the patient.
What does the acronym PASS stand for when using a fire extinguisher?
Pull the pin
Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
Squeeze the handle
Sweep from side to side