Avoiding Malpractice Pitfalls

Pitfalls of Malpractice Why is this man likely to get sued for malpractice?

Being rude or disrespectful will increase the likelihood of being sued

Why would this loud opinionated man get sued?

Offering your opinions to patients leaves you vulnerable Offering your opinions to patients leaves you vulnerable. You may be wrong and they may take your advice.

What are these women probably doing that could lead to a lawsuit?

Gossiping Don’t discuss a patient’s care or personal business unless it is needed to provide proper nursing care.

This man is witnessing a document. Why might he be sued?

Failing to understand the legal significance of your signature. Never sign you name as a witness without understanding what you are signing for and the legal significance of you signature.

Work Smart This nurse is being smart. The doctor told her to administer Valium STAT and she told him to ________________.

Write it down! Document verbal orders thoroughly.

Documentation Be neat and tidy.

Your medical records should be clear and legible Make revisions correctly

Don’t be a hero Never treat patients without orders from a physician.

Don’t leave patients in the Dark Don’t participate in procedures unless you are satisfied the patient has given proper informed consent.

Prepare for Clinicals Don’t use equipment you are not familiar with.

Prevent Falls Error on the side of being safe.

The End