Progressive Care Nursing Certification (PCCN) Practice Exam

What is the most common reason for a patient to file a nursing negligence claim?

1. Medication errors

2. Sloppy work by the nurse

3. Ineffective communication

4. Poor outcomes

The correct answer is: Ineffective communication

Effective communication is essential in nursing practice, as it significantly impacts patient safety and satisfaction. When communication is lacking or ineffective, it can lead to misunderstandings between healthcare providers, patients, and families. This includes misinterpretations regarding patient care instructions, medication administration, and changes in patient status. When a nurse fails to communicate effectively, critical information may be missed, leading to adverse outcomes for patients. Such failures can foster an environment where misjudgments occur, which may result in patients experiencing negative consequences related to their care. Consequently, these oversights are often the basis for negligence claims, as patients or their families seek redress for perceived inadequate care linked to poor communication. Other factors, such as medication errors or poor outcomes, can stem from communication issues, especially in a progressive care setting where patients often have complex health needs requiring collaboration among various team members. Thus, while other categories of negligence exist, ineffective communication stands out as the most frequent trigger for nursing negligence claims.