What is the correct action to take after a near-miss event involving improper administration of epinephrine?

The proper course of action after a near-miss event involving improper administration of epinephrine is to report the incident internally, following the established policies through the defined incident reporting system. This step is crucial because it allows for systematic tracking and analysis of safety issues that could potentially lead to patient harm.

Reporting ensures that the event is documented and reviewed, which can help identify contributing factors and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Institutional reporting mechanisms are often designed to foster a culture of safety, allowing healthcare providers to learn from mistakes without fear of punitive repercussions. This collaborative approach strengthens patient safety protocols and enhances overall team awareness regarding the risks associated with medication administration.

In contrast, informing the patient directly about the near-miss might not be appropriate or constructive without a full understanding of the situation, and discussing it only among the team may lead to a lack of formal accountability or learning opportunities. Ignoring the incident, especially when it involves potential risk to patient safety, undermines efforts to improve care practices and does not contribute to creating a safer healthcare environment.