Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

According to The Joint Commission, within how many business days must a hospital prepare a corrective action plan after a sentinel event?

1. 20

2. 30

3. 45

4. 60

The correct answer is: 45

The correct timeframe established by The Joint Commission for a hospital to prepare a corrective action plan after a sentinel event is 45 business days. This requirement is set to ensure that healthcare organizations promptly address any significant safety issues that arise from such events, allowing for a thorough investigation and solution development. Timeliness is crucial in these situations, as the goal is to improve patient safety and prevent future occurrences. The 45-day period provides sufficient time for hospitals to gather necessary data, involve appropriate stakeholders in discussions, and formulate comprehensive plans that address the root causes of the sentinel event. Understanding this timeframe is important for nursing professional development as it highlights the role of ongoing quality improvement and accountability in healthcare settings. Recognition of sentinel events can also guide educational programs aimed at mitigating risks and enhancing patient safety culture within healthcare organizations.