Which action should be taken if a patient receives multiple high dose exams within a short period?

In situations where a patient receives multiple high-dose exams in a short timeframe, the appropriate action is to report it as a potential sentinel event. A sentinel event refers to a patient safety event that results in death, or serious physical or psychological injury, or risk thereof. Reporting such an occurrence is vital for several reasons.

First, it ensures that the event is officially acknowledged and investigated. This process helps identify any underlying issues or patterns that could endanger other patients. Reporting it not only enhances patient safety but also provides valuable data that can lead to improved practices and protocols within the healthcare facility.

Additionally, the action of labeling it as a sentinel event signifies the seriousness of this potential overexposure to radiation, ensuring that necessary evaluations and changes in procedures are addressed. Engaging in this proactive measure underscores the commitment to patient safety and quality care.

Monitoring the patient or documenting doses and informing management are also important steps, but they do not carry the same weight in terms of institutional learning and improving patient safety systems as reporting a potential sentinel event does.