Question

A patient in your colleague's care suffers minor harm due to a medication mix-up. In which of the following situations might some type of punitive action against your colleague be warranted?

(A) She was under the influence of illicit drugs when the error occurred.
(B) She accidentally administered the wrong medication although trying her best.
(C) She ignored proper protocol for dispensing the medication because she resented being told what to do.
(D) A and C

Answer 1

Punitive action could be warranted if a healthcare worker was under the influence of illicit drugs or intentionally ignored proper protocol when a medication mix-up occurred.

Step-by-step explanation:

Punitive action against a colleague in healthcare may be warranted in scenarios where the individual's actions were negligent or in violation of established protocols or laws. For instance, if a healthcare worker was under the influence of illicit drugs at the time of a medication mix-up, this would be grounds for punitive action due to the breach of professional and legal requirements for safe practice. Similarly, if the colleague willingly ignored proper protocol for dispensing medication out of resentment, this intentional disregard for patient safety could also warrant disciplinary measures. However, an honest mistake made while attempting to provide appropriate care would typically be viewed through a lens of improving practices rather than punishment.