Common Nursing Skill Errors

We’ve identified these critical mistakes that students frequently make when answering basic nursing skills questions:

❌ Vital Signs Measurement Errors:

• Rushing through pulse/respiration counts
• Not waiting long enough for accurate temperature readings
• Incorrect blood pressure cuff placement
• Forgetting to report abnormal values
• Not recognizing normal ranges
• Taking vitals on wrong side/position

❌ Personal Care Procedure Errors:

• Skipping privacy measures
• Wrong washing direction (clean to dirty)
• Improper water temperature checking
• Not changing gloves when required
• Forgetting to observe skin conditions
• Rushing through oral care

❌ Positioning and Transfer Mistakes:

• Not checking bed brakes
• Forgetting to explain procedures to residents
• Incorrect body mechanics
• Working alone when assistance is needed
• Improper alignment of resident’s body
• Not using gait belt when required

❌ Documentation Oversights:

• Recording before completing tasks
• Using incorrect abbreviations
• Incomplete documentation
• Not recording time of observations
• Missing important details
• Late entries without proper notation

❌ Assessment and Observation Errors:

• Not reporting subtle changes
• Missing important signs/symptoms
• Incomplete head-to-toe checks
• Failing to follow up on complaints
• Not recognizing urgency levels
• Overlooking behavioral changes

❌ Measurement and Recording Mistakes:

• Inaccurate intake/output records
• Wrong measurement units
• Not zeroing scales
• Incorrect reading of measuring devices
• Poor timing of measurements
• Forgetting to record immediately

❌ Communication Errors:

• Not clarifying unclear orders
• Failing to report changes promptly
• Incomplete shift handoffs
• Poor emergency communication
• Not following chain of command
• Missing crucial details in reports

❌ Equipment Usage Mistakes:

• Not checking equipment before use
• Improper cleaning/storage
• Wrong size selection
• Forgetting safety checks
• Incorrect assembly/disassembly
• Not reporting malfunctions

❌ Time Management Issues:

• Poor prioritization
• Rushing through procedures
• Not allowing enough time for tasks
• Skipping steps to save time
• Inadequate preparation
• Missing scheduled care times

❌ Critical Thinking Errors on Exam Questions:

• Not reading full questions
• Missing key words
• Choosing familiar over correct answers
• Not considering all options
• Rushing through “easy” questions
• Overlooking specific scenario details

Key Points to Remember:

• Accuracy trumps speed
• Follow all steps in proper order
• Never skip safety measures
• If in doubt, ask for help
• Document everything promptly
• Report changes immediately

Red Flags in Exam Questions:

• Watch for words like “FIRST,” “BEST,” “MOST IMPORTANT”
• Pay attention to resident condition details
• Notice time-sensitive situations
• Look for safety-related keywords
• Consider infection control implications

Common Question Traps:

• Multiple correct answers (find BEST)
• Similar-sounding options
• Partial correct answers
• Familiar but wrong choices
• Time pressure decisions

Ready to perfect your skills? Continue to ‘Nursing Skills Mastery Tips’ for expert strategies.