QSEN Graduate Competencies

QSEN Graduate Competencies

After reviewing the 2012 QSEN Graduate Competencies (PDF), identify a quality/safety issue that you have seen in your practice or clinical setting.

Explain to your classmates the issue you have identified and the reasons why it is an issue. Include the potential negative outcomes that can arise if the issue is not resolved.

For example, you notice that the provider is not following the American Cancer Society’s recommendation for cervical cancer screening. This issue in quality competency can lead to under-testing, over-testing, increased cost, and increased potential for surgical procedures. These factors can have negative consequences, such as higher risk for preterm labor or infertility.

As you create your post, review the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of the relevant competency regarding the quality/safety issue you have identified.

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Medication errors can happen at any stage of the medication process, from prescribing to administering, and can result in serious harm to patients. For example, if a nurse administers the wrong medication or the wrong dose, the patient may experience adverse effects such as allergic reactions or medication toxicity. In addition to the physical harm caused by medication errors, they can also lead to increased healthcare costs, prolonged hospital stays, and decreased patient satisfaction.

The relevant QSEN Graduate Competencies for this issue include knowledge of medication safety principles, skills in medication administration, and attitudes that prioritize patient safety. To address this issue, healthcare professionals must be knowledgeable about the proper use and administration of medications, and be able to identify and report medication errors promptly. They must also have the skills to calculate medication doses accurately, understand medication interactions, and verify medication orders before administration. In terms of attitudes, healthcare professionals must prioritize patient safety and be willing to ask questions or seek clarification if they are unsure about any aspect of medication administration.

In conclusion, medication errors are a common quality/safety issue in healthcare that can have serious consequences for patients. To prevent medication errors, healthcare professionals must possess the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for safe medication administration.