Categories of problems related to patient safety
| Category and definition | Question stem |
|---|---|
| Medication problems: When a medication is not given exactly as it was meant to be given Examples: Medication given in the incorrect amount; patient had an allergic reaction to medication | Do you think a medication problem occurred or was stopped before occurring? |
| Complication of care: When there is an unwanted result of treatment Examples: Unexpected bleeding occurred; patient was transferred to the intensive care unit because of a complication | Do you think a complication of care occurred or was stopped before occurring? |
| Equipment problems: When equipment fails or is not used correctly Examples: Equipment not available when needed; an arterial line leaked or became blocked | Do you think an equipment problem occurred or was stopped before occurring? |
| Miscommunications between staff: When members of the staff give or receive information from other staff about diagnosis, treatment, or care that is inadequate (not enough information), conflicting (information that is different from what someone else gave) or incorrect Examples: A test was repeated because the original result was lost or destroyed; a test was cancelled by mistake | Do you think miscommunication between staff occurred or was stopped before occurring? |
| Miscommunications between my family and staff: When you or your family gives or receives information from staff about diagnosis, treatment or care that is inadequate (not enough information), conflicting (information that is different from what someone else gave) or incorrect Examples: Medication instructions were not explained to me or my family; staff did not communicate well | Do you think a miscommunication between your family and staff occurred or was stopped before occurring? |
| Other: When any action not previously described fails or was the incorrect action Examples: A burn occurred; a cut occurred | Do you think any other problems occurred or were stopped before occurring? |