Prevention of Medical Errors for Florida Nurses

This 2-hour CE course fulfills the Florida Board of Nursing’s mandatory requirement for continuing education on the prevention of medical errors. Designed specifically for registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and advanced practice nurses, the course addresses the root causes of medical errors and promotes evidence-based strategies to prevent adverse outcomes in clinical practice.

The course opens with an overview of the prevalence and impact of medical errors within healthcare systems, including a review of data from authoritative bodies such as the Joint Commission and the Institute of Medicine. Participants will explore categories of common medical errors, including medication errors, communication breakdowns, diagnostic inaccuracies, and procedural oversights while examining contributing factors such as human factors, environmental design, and system inefficiencies.

Detailed modules highlight high-risk scenarios and populations, with an emphasis on the nurse’s role in recognizing early warning signs, applying safety protocols, and participating in a culture of safety. The course provides practical guidance on techniques such as root cause analysis (RCA), failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA), effective handoff communication (e.g., SBAR), and use of standardized protocols and checklists to reduce preventable harm.

Florida-specific regulations are addressed, including legal mandates for reporting adverse incidents, sentinel events, and near misses. Real-world case studies and clinical vignettes are used throughout to reinforce learning and support critical thinking in complex care settings.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Define the types and causes of medical errors in nursing practice.
• Identify high-risk areas and common factors contributing to medical errors.
• Apply evidence-based strategies to prevent errors in patient care.
• Recognize the role of communication, teamwork, and documentation in reducing adverse outcomes.
• Understand Florida-specific statutes and reporting requirements for adverse incidents.
• Utilize tools such as RCA and FMEA to analyze and prevent future errors.

Course Completion Requirements:

To complete this CE course and receive full credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Review all course materials.
• Complete the post-test with a passing score of 70% or higher.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Note: Some courses may include additional assignments or clinical case reviews

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: The course planners, authors, and presenters have no financial or commercial conflicts of interest related to this educational activity.
• Commercial Support: This course has not received sponsorship or financial support from commercial entities.
• Non-Endorsement: Approval of this course as a continuing education activity does not imply endorsement of any products, services, or companies mentioned within the content.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any discussion of off-label medication use is clearly identified and supported by available evidence.