Final answer:
The primary cause of untoward events in the hospital setting is ineffective reporting of the untoward event.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary cause of untoward events in the hospital setting can be attributed to a variety of factors, but one statement that shows an understanding is option 3) 'ineffective reporting of the untoward event.' This means that if an untoward event occurs, but it is not reported or documented properly, it can lead to further complications and potential harm to patients. Effective reporting is crucial for identifying and addressing issues in the hospital setting.