Underreporting can have severe consequences, including:
Compromised Patient Safety: Lack of accurate data prevents the identification of systemic issues that need addressing. Increased Risk of Errors: Without proper reporting, patterns of errors may go unnoticed, leading to repeated mistakes. Emotional Toll on Nurses: The burden of unreported incidents can lead to stress, burnout, and job dissatisfaction. Legal and Ethical Implications: Failure to report can result in legal consequences and ethical dilemmas for healthcare professionals.