7 Patient Safety Practices Free Online FlashCards

How many person-specific identifiers should be used before providing care?

Use at least two person-specific identifiers, such as the patient’s full name and date of birth, and match them to the order, wristband, or record.

What key information belongs in a care handoff?

Include the patient’s current condition, relevant background, pending tasks, safety concerns, and what to do if the condition changes.

What is the core approach to individualized fall prevention?

Assess the patient’s individual risks, create a plan that addresses them, carry it out consistently, and reassess if the patient’s condition changes.

What should be checked before administering medication?

Verify the order and patient identity; check the medication, dose, route, and timing; and review allergies and relevant clinical parameters.

What are the first steps when a safety event occurs?

First attend to the patient’s immediate needs, obtain help, and notify the appropriate clinician or supervisor; then report the event according to policy.

Why can’t a room or bed number identify a patient?

A room or bed number is not a person-specific identifier.

What should you do if patient identification details do not match?

Stop and resolve the discrepancy before proceeding with care, treatment, or services.

What does SBAR stand for?

SBAR means Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation.

How can you check whether a patient understood an explanation?

Use teach-back to check the patient’s understanding.

Name practical ways to make a patient’s environment safer from falls.

Keep the call device and needed items within reach, clear pathways, and use appropriate footwear or assistive devices.

What is medication reconciliation at a care transition?

Compare what the patient is actually taking—including nonprescription products and supplements—with current orders, then resolve unexplained differences with the appropriate prescriber or pharmacist.

Why should near misses be reported?

Report near misses because they can reveal hazards before someone is harmed.