Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Which statement about adverse events is true?

1. They always involve medication errors

2. They can arise from healthcare delivery processes

3. They are mainly reported by healthcare providers

4. They are not preventable with proper procedures

The correct answer is: They can arise from healthcare delivery processes

The statement that adverse events can arise from healthcare delivery processes is correct because adverse events are defined as unintended injuries or complications that result in disability, increased length of stay, or death, and can occur due to various factors within the healthcare system. These adverse events can stem from a wide range of origins, including systemic issues, communication failures, and design flaws in the care processes. Thus, recognizing that they can arise from healthcare delivery processes emphasizes the need for comprehensive risk management and quality improvement strategies to enhance patient safety. In contrast, the notion that adverse events always involve medication errors is too narrow; while medication errors can certainly lead to adverse events, there are many other types of events related to surgical errors, infections, and miscommunications that can contribute to patient harm. Additionally, the statement that they are mainly reported by healthcare providers overlooks the role of patients and families in recognizing and reporting these events, which is crucial for a holistic approach to safety. Lastly, considering that many adverse events are preventable with appropriate interventions, it is inaccurate to claim that they are not preventable; a robust system of checks, balances, and adherence to safety protocols can significantly reduce their occurrence.