Identify and discuss some legal issues that have affected hospital’s business operations. Provide an example and explain how a Chief Nursing Officer or Nurse Administrator in the an acute care or long-term care setting might address his/her health care team members should ethical and legal violations occur within the facility
Some legal issues that have affected hospital's business operations include:
1. Medical malpractice: This is when a patient claims to have received improper or negligent medical care, resulting in harm or injury. For example, a doctor performing surgery on the wrong body part or prescribing the wrong medication.
2. HIPAA violations: The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) ensures the privacy and security of patients' medical information. Violations can occur when healthcare professionals fail to properly protect patient confidentiality, such as sharing patient information without consent or failing to secure electronic medical records.
3. Employment issues: Hospitals may face legal challenges related to employment laws, such as discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, or failure to comply with wage and hour regulations.
To address ethical and legal violations within a healthcare facility, a Chief Nursing Officer or Nurse Administrator can take the following steps:
1. Create a culture of ethics and compliance: Encourage a culture where ethical behavior is emphasized and embedded in all levels of the organization. This can be accomplished through regular ethics training, clear policies and procedures, and ongoing communication with healthcare team members.
2. Establish reporting mechanisms: Implement a system where healthcare team members can report any ethical or legal violations confidentially and without fear of retaliation. This can be done through anonymous hotlines, suggestion boxes or an open-door policy where members can talk to their superiors.
3. Conduct timely investigations: Once a violation is reported, it should be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Designate a compliance officer or a team responsible for conducting thorough and impartial investigations into alleged violations.
4. Follow due process: If a violation is substantiated, it is important to follow due process in addressing the issue. This may involve disciplinary actions, counseling, retraining, or termination if necessary, while ensuring that the rights of all parties involved are respected.
5. Educate and train: Provide ongoing education and training on ethical and legal standards to healthcare team members. This can include regular staff meetings, workshops, or online training modules to keep the team updated on current regulations and practices.
6. Monitor and audit: Regularly monitor and audit compliance with legal and ethical standards within the facility. This can include conducting internal audits, reviewing documentation and records, and ensuring that all policies and procedures are consistently followed.
By taking these steps, a Chief Nursing Officer or Nurse Administrator can help create a culture of ethical and legal compliance within the healthcare facility, promoting patient safety and protecting the organization from legal issues.