The nurse caring for clients in an acute care facility recognizes that

The nurse caring for clients in an acute care facility recognizes that attending to the safety of each client is most likely to result in: (Select all that apply.)

1. Freedom from illness
2. A shorter hospital stay
3. Attention to the basic human needs
4. A well-founded sense of well-being
5. Preservation of the optimal functioning level
6. Minimal exposure to bacterial cross-contamination

ANSWER

ANS: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Safety in health care settings reduces the incidence of illness and injury, prevents extended length of treatment and/or hospitalization, improves or maintains a client’s functional status, and increases the client’s sense of well-being. A safe environment gives protection to the staff as well, allowing them to function at an optimal level. A safe environment includes meeting basic needs, reducing physical hazards, reducing the transmission of pathogens, maintaining sanitation, and controlling pollution. While a reduction of illness is an expectation, there is no assurance of the freedom from illness.