Healthcare Emergency Codes and Safety

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Questions and Answers

What does Code Blue signify in an emergency situation?

Bomb Threat/Suspicious Package

Fire

Missing Person

Medical Emergency/Cardiac Arrest (correct)

Which of the following incidents is classified as a 'Near miss'?

An event that reaches the patient but does not cause harm.

An incident that did not reach the patient and no harm was done. (correct)

An incident that causes harm to the patient.

A patient suffers a minor injury.

Why is it important for a nurse to be familiar with a patient’s developmental level and lifestyle choices?

To avoid any communication with the patient.

To ensure that all patients receive identical treatment.

To provide personalized and effective care. (correct)

To increase the nurse's workload.

What is the primary purpose of implementing safety measures in healthcare settings?

To prevent incidents and protect clients and staff. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Code Orange' indicate in emergencies?

Mass Casualty Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a ‘harmful’ incident?

An incident where a patient suffers harm. Signup and view all the answers

What does Code Black alert responders to?

Bomb Threat/Suspicious Package. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of safety, what is a key component a nurse must practice during lifts and transfers?

Adhering to safe lifting techniques. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a recommended practice for ensuring bedside safety?

Maintaining appropriate bed height Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to the breaks of a commode placed on the exit side?

They should be engaged at all times Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to keep the bedside table stored on the non-exit side?

To create a clear exit path in case of emergencies Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using anti-slip strips or footwear?

To reduce the risk of falls Signup and view all the answers

How does using a height adjustable low bed help in patient safety?

It prevents falls from a significant height Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of ensuring the call bell is in reach?

To facilitate immediate assistance when needed Signup and view all the answers

Why should a nightlight be used in a patient's room?

To prevent falls during nighttime movements Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of having a commode on the exit side while ensuring breaks are on?

It allows for immediate access while remaining safe Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of physical restraints?

To immobilize a patient or their extremities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is NOT an alternative to restraints?

Medication administration to calm the patient Signup and view all the answers

What are environmental restraints designed to do?

Limit patient movement using locked units Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a fire, what does the 'R' in the REACT acronym stand for?

Remove those in immediate danger Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following could cause suffocation in a patient?

Ingestion of foreign objects Signup and view all the answers

Which guideline should be followed when using calm, simple language with patients?

Ensure that the patient's needs are being met Signup and view all the answers

The CLPNA guidelines primarily address which aspect of patient care?

Legalities of restraint use Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of using the PASS technique in fire safety?

To aid in extinguishing a fire efficiently Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT listed as affecting safety in care settings?

Cultural influences Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of reported incidents do falls account for in care settings?

90% Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommended practice for fall prevention?

Increased patient isolation Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'least-restraint' philosophy aim to promote?

Highest-quality care and patient autonomy Signup and view all the answers

Which type of individual characteristic can increase risks in care settings?

Age Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the outcomes of effective fall assessment and communication?

Improved risk awareness Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an environmental modification for fall prevention?

Installing non-slip flooring Signup and view all the answers

What type of accidents are included in procedure-related incidents?

Patient falls during procedures Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Emergency Codes

Code Blue: Medical emergency/cardiac arrest
Code Red: Fire
Code White: Violence/aggression
Code Purple: Hostage
Code Yellow: Missing person
Code Black: Bomb threat/Suspicious package
Code Grey: Shelter in place/air exclusion
Code Green: Evacuation
Code Brown: Chemical spill/hazardous material
Code Orange: Mass casualty

Patient Safety

Falls are the most common incident in healthcare settings, accounting for up to 90% of reported incidents.
Procedure-related accidents: These occur when a medical procedure is performed incorrectly or when there is a failure to follow the proper procedure.
Equipment-related accidents: These occur when medical equipment malfunctions or is used incorrectly.

Patient & Provider Characteristics that Affect Safety

Patient: These include developmental stage, mobility, sensory and cognitive status, and lifestyle choices.
Provider: These include experience, education, and fatigue level.
Task Characteristics: These include complexity, urgency, and repetitiveness.

Environmental Factors that Affect Safety

Technology: This includes the use of medical devices and equipment, such as infusion pumps and ventilators.
Environment: This includes the physical layout of the care setting, such as the presence of clutter or tripping hazards.
Organizational: These include organizational policies and procedures, staffing levels, and communication.

Fall Prevention

Assessment & communication: A thorough assessment of the patient's fall risk is crucial.
Environmental modifications: Adjusting a patient's environment to prevent falls, i.e., using bed rails or non-slip mats.
Exercise interventions: Physical therapy and regular exercise can improve mobility and reduce fall risk.
Podiatry care: Regular foot care can help minimize the risk of falls due to foot problems.

Restraint Use Philosophy

The “least-restraint” approach is encouraged to ensure the highest quality of care. This means using restraints only when absolutely necessary and exploring all other alternatives first.

Types of Restraints

Physical: Used to immobilize a patient or one or more of their extremities (ex: wrist restraints).
Chemical: Medication given to prevent a particular behavior or movement (ex: anti-anxiety medication).
Environmental: Designed features of a care setting to prevent a patient from leaving or engaging in specific actions (ex: locked units).

Alternatives to Restraints

Provide companionship, supervision, and reorientation as appropriate.
Offer regular physical activity, diversionary activities, and explanations of procedures.
Ensure the patient's needs are being met (i.e., toileting, hygiene).
Use calm, simple language and de-escalation techniques as needed.

Workplace Safety (WHMIS)

Follow workplace safety guidelines and take precautions when handling hazardous materials.
The WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) provides information about the dangers of specific substances and how to safely handle them.
Be familiar with the common safety precautions and risks associated with the work environment.

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Description

This quiz covers essential emergency codes used in healthcare settings, including their meanings and implications for patient safety. Additionally, it discusses factors that affect patient and provider safety, along with common incidents and accidents in medical environments. Test your knowledge of these critical aspects of healthcare.