Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What documentation must be done following an accident involving patients or personnel?

1. Only a verbal report to the director

2. A formal accident record or incident report

3. A notification to family members

4. No documentation is necessary

The correct answer is: A formal accident record or incident report

Following an accident involving patients or personnel, thorough documentation is critical for several reasons, making the requirement for a formal accident record or incident report essential. This type of documentation serves as a comprehensive account of the event, detailing what occurred, when it happened, the individuals involved, and any immediate actions taken in response to the incident. Such a record is important for accurate communication within the healthcare facility and can serve multiple purposes: it aids in the investigation of the incident to prevent future occurrences, it provides legal protection for the facility, and it is necessary for regulatory compliance. The information may be used for quality improvement initiatives, analysis of safety protocols, and staff training. Additionally, this formal documentation creates a factual basis that can be referred to during follow-up evaluations and can be crucial if any legal or liability issues arise from the incident. It ensures accountability and reinforces the facility's commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both patients and staff.