A nurse is serving on a continuous quality improvement (CQI) committee that has been assigned to develop a program to reduce the number of medication administration errors following a sentinel event at the facility. Which of the following strategies should the committee plan to initiate first?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Review the events leading up to each medication administration error. This strategy should be initiated first because it allows the committee to identify the root causes of the errors. By analyzing the events leading up to each error, the committee can pinpoint specific breakdowns in the medication administration process and implement targeted interventions to prevent future errors. This approach focuses on addressing the underlying issues that contribute to errors, leading to more effective and sustainable improvements in medication safety. Choice A is incorrect because providing an inservice on medication administration may be beneficial but does not address the specific causes of the errors. Choice B is also incorrect as simply requiring staff nurses to pass an examination may not address the systemic issues that contribute to errors. Choice D is incorrect as developing a quality improvement program for nurses involved in errors is reactive rather than proactive and may not prevent future errors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because analyzing pre-existing health records is an example of secondary data analysis, where researchers use data that was collected by someone else for a different purpose. This method is cost-effective and time-saving. Choice A involves collecting original data, not analyzing existing data. Choice C involves conducting primary data collection through interviews. Choice D involves conducting an experimental study, not analyzing existing data. In summary, B is correct as it aligns with the definition and characteristics of secondary data analysis, while the other choices involve primary data collection methods.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Review the events leading up to each medication administration error. This should be initiated first because it allows the committee to identify root causes of errors and implement targeted interventions. By understanding the sequence of events, the committee can uncover system weaknesses or breakdowns that contribute to errors. A: Providing an inservice may be helpful, but without understanding the specific factors leading to errors, it may not address the underlying issues causing the errors. B: Requiring a competency exam is important, but addressing the system failures that lead to errors should take priority to prevent future errors. D: Developing a quality improvement program is necessary, but without a thorough understanding of the events leading to errors, the program may not effectively target the root causes of errors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, using 2 hands for deep palpation. Deep palpation requires more pressure and depth to assess internal organs or structures. Using 2 hands allows for better control, even pressure distribution, and more thorough examination. Using 2 fingers (option B) may not provide enough force for deep palpation, while options C and D are incomplete choices. In summary, using 2 hands is the best approach for deep palpation due to its effectiveness in applying sufficient pressure and achieving accurate results.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B (Above 3 feet in radius) because airborne diseases can spread through respiratory droplets that can travel farther than 3 feet. This is particularly important for diseases like COVID-19 and tuberculosis. Choice A (3 feet in radius) is incorrect as it underestimates the distance respiratory droplets can travel. Choices C and D are incomplete and do not provide a clear answer. Remember, maintaining a safe distance, wearing masks, and proper ventilation are key in preventing the spread of airborne diseases.