The unit has been so understaffed that the nurse has been unable to attend education sessions on new medications that physicians will be prescribing for the treatment of hypertension. This situation is likely to result in a medication error resulting from which contributing factor?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. Work environment issues are problems such as staffing levels and mix, patterns of workload; work design, availability and maintenance of equipment, and administrative and managerial support. This nurse has been unable to get necessary education because of staffing issues.
2. Task issues are problems such as availability and use of protocols and availability and accuracy of test results.
3. Individual staff member factors include knowledge and skills, motivation and attitude, and physical and mental health. This nurse does lack essential knowledge, but the reason for this lack is a staffing problem, which speaks to work environment.
4. Organization and management issues are such factors as financial resources and constraints, policy standards and goals, safety culture, and priorities.

The Unit Has Been So Understaffed That the Nurse Has