Latent conditions are underlying system vulnerabilities that increase the risk of errors but may not immediately cause harm, distinguishing them from active errors.
Option A (Specific unsafe acts that have adverse consequences): This describes active errors (e.g., wrong medication dose), not latent conditions.
Option B (Defects that may go undetected for long periods of time): This is the correct answer. The NAHQ CPHQ study guide states, “Latent conditions are systemic defects, such as poor equipment design or inadequate protocols, that remain undetected and increase error risk over time” (Domain 1). Examples include look-alike medications stored together.
Option C (Unintentional mistakes made by an individual): These are active errors, not latent system issues.
Option D (Errors having a direct and immediate effect on safety): These are active errors with immediate impact, not latent conditions.
CPHQ Objective Reference: Domain 1: Patient Safety, Objective 1.4, “Identify latent conditions contributing to errors,” emphasizes recognizing systemic vulnerabilities. The NAHQ study guide notes, “Latent conditions are hidden system flaws that predispose to safety events” (Domain 1).
Rationale: Latent conditions are undetected system defects, aligning with CPHQ’s focus on systemic safety risks.
[Reference: NAHQ CPHQ Study Guide, Domain 1: Patient Safety, Objective 1.4., , , , , ]
