What situation would require an incident report to be filed?

Filing an incident report is necessary in situations where there has been a deviation from standard procedures or protocols that could potentially harm the patient or indicate a lapse in care. Administering medication without an order is a significant breach of protocol because it poses direct risks to patient safety, such as administering the wrong dosage, medication, or timing. Such an action could lead to adverse effects, and it is crucial to document the incident to ensure accountability, review the circumstances surrounding it, and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence. This kind of report helps to maintain the integrity of healthcare practices and emphasizes the importance of adhering to established medical orders.

In contrast, monitoring vital signs, handling a client's refusal of treatment, or conducting routine check-ups are standard practices within the healthcare environment and typically do not require an incident report unless they result in an unexpected event or complication. Such routine activities do not deviate from the expected standard of care.