NMBI Patient Safety

Question 1

What is the purpose of the National Standards for Safer Better Healthcare in Ireland?

Accepted Answer

To provide a framework for quality and safety in healthcare services, setting out what is expected in terms of safe, person-centred care

Answer

The National Standards for Safer Better Healthcare, published by HIQA, provide a framework for continuous quality improvement in healthcare. They cover eight themes including person-centred care, effective care, safe care, and leadership.

Question 2

What is an 'open disclosure' in the context of patient safety in Ireland?

Accepted Answer

An open, honest, and timely communication with a patient when things go wrong in their healthcare, including an apology and explanation

Answer

Open disclosure is the process of communicating honestly with patients (and their families) when adverse events occur. The HSE Open Disclosure Policy requires that patients are told what happened, given an apology, and informed about what steps are being taken to prevent recurrence.

Question 3

What is ISBAR and how is it used in clinical handover?

Accepted Answer

A structured communication tool: Identify, Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation — used to ensure safe transfer of patient information

Answer

ISBAR is a standardised communication framework used during clinical handovers to ensure all relevant patient information is communicated clearly and completely. It reduces the risk of important information being lost during transitions of care.

Question 4

What is the correct procedure for patient identification before administering a medication?

Accepted Answer

Use at least two patient identifiers (full name AND date of birth or medical record number) and check against the prescription

Answer

Two identifiers must be used to confirm patient identity before any clinical intervention, including medication administration. The patient should be asked to state their full name and date of birth, which are then checked against the prescription and wristband.

Question 5

What is the role of incident reporting in patient safety?

Accepted Answer

To document and analyse adverse events and near misses so that patterns can be identified and systemic improvements can be made to prevent recurrence

Answer

Incident reporting is a non-punitive system designed to capture information about adverse events and near misses. Analysing this data identifies systemic weaknesses and drives improvements. A 'just culture' approach encourages reporting without fear of blame for honest errors.

NMBI Practice Test

NMBI Practice Test

NMBI Patient Safety