#1
What is the leading cause of medical errors in healthcare settings?
Miscommunication
ExplanationPoor communication among healthcare providers leads to misunderstandings and errors in patient care.
#2
Which of the following is NOT considered a medical error?
Following the standard treatment protocol
ExplanationFollowing established treatment guidelines is considered best practice and not an error.
#3
What is the term used to describe medical errors that result in patient harm?
Adverse event
ExplanationAdverse events refer to errors causing harm to patients, highlighting the seriousness of medical errors.
#4
What is the primary purpose of the 'five rights' of medication administration?
To prevent medication errors
ExplanationThe 'five rights' ensure that patients receive the correct medication in the right dose, route, and time, reducing the risk of errors.
#5
Which organization is responsible for accrediting healthcare facilities in the United States?
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
ExplanationCMS oversees the accreditation of healthcare facilities to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.
#6
What percentage of medical errors are estimated to be preventable?
70-80%
ExplanationA significant portion of medical errors is preventable through improved systems and practices.
#7
Which type of medical error is often related to illegible handwriting?
Medication error
ExplanationIllegible handwriting can lead to medication errors, causing harm to patients.
#8
Which healthcare profession is most likely to encounter medical errors directly?
Nurses
ExplanationNurses often interact closely with patients, medications, and treatments, increasing their exposure to errors.
#9
Which factor does NOT contribute to medication errors?
Overuse of electronic health records
ExplanationElectronic health records generally aid in reducing errors by providing accurate and accessible patient information.
#10
What is the most common type of diagnostic error?
Delayed diagnosis
ExplanationDelayed diagnosis is common and can lead to adverse outcomes due to missed opportunities for timely treatment.
#11
What is the primary goal of a root cause analysis (RCA) in healthcare?
To identify systemic issues
ExplanationRCA aims to uncover underlying systemic problems contributing to errors rather than blaming individuals.
#12
Which strategy is NOT recommended for reducing medical errors?
Increasing workload for healthcare professionals
ExplanationIncreasing workload can lead to fatigue and stress, increasing the likelihood of errors rather than reducing them.
#13
What is the primary focus of the 'Swiss Cheese Model' in healthcare?
Analyzing systemic failures
ExplanationThe Swiss Cheese Model illustrates how multiple layers of defense can fail, leading to errors, emphasizing the importance of addressing systemic issues.