Dealing with Medical Mistakes: A Nurse's Perspective on Communication and Advocacy

As a nursing student, I was trained to recognize and address medical errors. When a doctor makes a mistake, it is the nurse's duty to ensure that the error is corrected and that the patient remains safe. The stakes are high in the healthcare setting, and clear communication is critical to maintaining patient safety.

Communicating with Doctors and Supervisors

When a medical error is identified, the first step is to report it to the doctor or supervisor. Effective communication is key. As a nurse, you must use clear and concise language to explain the issue and provide any relevant details. In the case of a logging error during surgery, for example, it is important to document everything accurately and inform the doctor of any discrepancies.

It is not uncommon for a supervisor to dismiss or minimize the importance of the error. In such cases, it is essential to escalate the issue. Nurses have a duty to advocate for their patients, even if it means going over the heads of certain medical staff. By documenting the error and providing the necessary evidence, you can ensure that the issue is addressed appropriately.

Handling Politically Challenging Situations

As the healthcare system becomes increasingly complex, political factors can often influence medical decisions. This can make it challenging to report errors, especially when dealing with high-level decision-makers. In some cases, professional relationships and career ambitions may come into play, leading to a reluctance to report errors.

It is important to navigate these politically charged situations with diplomacy and tact. While it is crucial to address the issue in a professional manner, there may also be times when more assertive actions are necessary. In a critical situation, a nurse may need to interject and scream, 'STOP!'—an action that could save a life. Such moments require a balance of assertiveness and professionalism.

Standing Up for Patient Safety

A secure and experienced doctor will value a nurse's input and feedback. However, some doctors may not be as receptive to criticism. In such cases, it is the nurse's responsibility to advocate for patient safety. Hospitalist nurses, who manage multiple patients with complex health conditions, often find themselves overwhelmed by the demands of their work. The mounting stress and the complexity of patient care can lead to errors, and it is the nurse's duty to ensure that these mistakes are rectified.

For example, I once had to involve the chief of medical staff and the medical director when a doctor's orders were inappropriate and potentially harmful. If I had not intervened, it could have led to serious harm or even death for the patient. By taking decisive action and providing detailed evidence, I was able to ensure that the patient's needs were met and that the doctor's orders were corrected.

Effective communication and advocacy are essential in the healthcare field. Nurses play a crucial role in identifying and addressing medical errors, and they must be prepared to navigate challenging situations with professionalism and integrity. By maintaining a commitment to patient safety, nurses can help ensure that the delivery of care remains at the highest standard.