Final answer:
To ensure safety in healthcare, incidents must be reported promptly, rather than ignored or kept quiet. Discussing concerns with colleagues also contributes to maintaining a safe environment for everyone.
Step-by-step explanation:
The action that protects patients, residents, and healthcare professionals from harm is reporting incidents promptly. This includes any situation that could potentially lead to injury or a lapse in patient care. By reporting such events, appropriate measures can be taken to prevent future occurrences and maintain a safe environment. Ignoring issues or keeping incidents to oneself can lead to patterns of harm and does not contribute to a culture of safety. It's also beneficial to discuss concerns with colleagues, as collaboration can lead to improved understanding and implementation of safety protocols.