HLT-313V Topic 2 DQ 2

A formal risk management plan demonstrates a health care organization’s approach as well as support for risk management and, ultimately, patient safety. Accessing information from your own employer/organization or using the internet to find an allied health care organization located in your city or region, identify the goals and objectives, scope, and functions of an existing risk management plan. How does the plan “measure up” in terms of meeting ethical and legal responsibilities to stakeholders? How might you improve it? Explain.
You are required to use and cite a minimum of two references from the GCU Library to support your response.

Solution

A formal risk management plan in a sonography practice is essential to ensure patient safety, reduce legal liability, and uphold ethical standards in healthcare. In the New Mexico region, allied health organizations such as hospitals or diagnostic imaging centers implement risk management strategies to maintain high standards of care. The main goals of these plans are to ensure accurate diagnostic imaging, comply with state and federal regulations, promote continuous quality improvement, and protect sonographers from occupational hazards. These objectives help ensure that both patients and healthcare providers are safe and well-informed throughout the imaging process. The scope of a typical risk management plan in a sonography setting includes every step of the ultrasound procedure, patient intake, scanning, documentation, equipment use, and post-exam procedures. The key functions include identifying potential risks such as equipment malfunction, procedural errors, or ergonomic injuries; assessing the likelihood and impact of these risks; implementing mitigation strategies; and routinely monitoring the plan’s effectiveness. For example, policies related to proper equipment handling and regular maintenance are designed to prevent technical failures that could harm patients or produce inaccurate results (MagMutual, n.d.). These risk management efforts also align with ethical and legal responsibilities. Ethically, the focus on patient safety and informed consent reflects a commitment to doing no harm and respecting patient autonomy. Legally, a solid risk management plan helps ensure compliance with professional guidelines and state laws, reducing the chance of malpractice claims. Proper documentation and adherence to infection prevention protocols are key elements in legal defense and quality assurance (Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography [SDMS], n.d.). There are still areas where improvement is possible. Sonographers would benefit from updated ergonomic training to reduce work-related injuries (Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA], n.d.). Enhanced patient communication can also help manage expectations and improve patient satisfaction. Additionally, infection prevention protocols, particularly regarding ultrasound transducer cleaning, should be reviewed and strengthened regularly. Overall, a well-designed risk management plan in sonography plays a crucial role in protecting patients, ensuring quality imaging, and fostering a safe work environment.

MagMutual. (n.d.). Ultrasonogram Risk Management. https://www.magmutual.com/learning/article/ultrasonogram-risk-management

SDMS. (n.d.). Infection Prevention and Control. https://www.sdms.org/resources/other-guidelines-standards/infection-prevention-and-control

OSHA. (n.d.). Sonography | Clinical Services. https://www.osha.gov/etools/hospitals/clinical-services/sonography

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