Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

To whom must an incident or accident be reported immediately?

1. The facility manager

2. The resident's physician

3. The health department

4. The insurance company

The correct answer is: The resident's physician

Reporting an incident or accident immediately to the resident's physician is crucial for several reasons. First, prompt notification allows the physician to assess the situation and decide on any necessary medical interventions for the resident involved. This is particularly important if the incident has potential medical implications, such as a fall or a medication error, where timely treatment can significantly affect health outcomes. Additionally, the physician plays a key role in the ongoing care of the resident and must be informed of any changes or incidents that could impact that care. By reporting directly to the physician, the nursing home ensures that the medical history and current condition of the resident are taken into account for any immediate actions or future treatment plans. While the facility manager, health department, and insurance company are also relevant stakeholders in reporting incidents, their involvement typically occurs after the immediate health needs of the resident have been addressed. Therefore, the physician's prompt awareness and response are essential for maintaining the well-being of the resident following an incident or accident.