Patient Identification
How many identifiers must be used each time you identify a patient?
Two
What two things should be done when taking an order verbally or by telephone?
Write it down and read it back.
Before a procedure, what should be done with any medications in a syringe or cup that is unlabeled?
Label it!
How do you ensure alarms are heard and responded to on time?
Ensure alarms are set correctly with correct parameters, and working well each shift.
What is the number one way to prevent infection that should always be prioritized?
Hand washing! 15 seconds with soap and water
What are the two acceptable identifiers?
Full name and DOB.
Who can take a critical lab result via telephone regarding an inpatient in the hospital?
Registered nurse
What is included in a proper medication label?
Name of medication, concentration and total dose of medication, expiration date
What surgical mistakes should never occur?
Wrong patient, wrong side, wrong surgery.
How can catheter associated UTI's be prevented?
Sterile insertion. Perineal care and catheter care per policy. Keep foley bag below the level of the bladder. Remove ASAP!
Patient location or room number
What is the nurse's responsibility when receiving a critical lab value?
Relay it to the physician ASAP.
How can providers be sure of a patient's home medications at the time of admission?
Medication reconciliation
How can wrong sided surgery be avoided?
Surgeon marks/initials correct surgical site before surgery.
What should be done to prevent central line associated blood stream infections?
Sterile insertion. Keep dressing dry and intact. Scrub the hub before accessing. Remove ASAP!
How can documented orders be compared or match?
Matching the verbal response of the patient to the patient armband.
Who should be called if physician is not answering?
Supervisor.
What type of medication requires extra care per the National Patient Safety Goals?
Blood thinners.
Take a time out to review right patient, right surgery, right side!
How do you prevent surgical infections?
Clean site appropriately, maintain sterile field, follow policies for care.
What third identifier can be used to make sure patient gets the correct blood products?
MRN (as well as name and DOB)
How can we ensure patient is knowledgeable about medications at time of discharge?
Ensure patient receives medication education with updated medication list at time of discharge.
What education should be given to a patient regarding their medication list at the time of discharge?
Take the list to every follow up appointment visit they have.
Why should all patients receive a mental health/depression screening on admission?
Identify patients at risk for suicide.
Use proven guidelines such as proper antibiotic use, hand hygiene, isolation protocols as necessary.