Errors and Near Misses

1.  What did I expect to learn about this topic before beginning the unit?
When I read the topic was “Errors and Near Misses” I was worried. Making a mistake always scares me especially as a new nurse. I was hoping to learn more about ways to prevent these errors and near misses.

2.   What I actually learned:

The case study this week put a pit in my stomach as I was reading it. I definitely felt like that was the main focus this week and for good reason. I think it is so beneficial to read about situations like this in order to learn from it. I’m glad there are others who have gone before me and have made those mistakes to hopefully I will never do the same thing. I also realized that it is beneficial for the health industry when things like this happen and changes are made to improve patient safety.

Human error is something that will never go away. It will never and can’t ever be 100% eliminated no matter what. It is my job as a nurse and person to think about what I am doing, question myself, question others, ask questions, make changes if necessary, and follow protocol. If something doesn’t feel right, I need to stop and think about it for a second. I also realize the value of the electronic health record and the fact that patient safety is perhaps the main focus of the entire system. It is convenient for us to be able to look at patient information at the click of a button but to be able to see that information to help in a critical situation or to plan care, that is so beneficial not only for healthcare professionals but for the patient and their overall safety, health, and progression.

3.  My feelings/experiences from the individual and team activities:

I enjoyed this week even though reading that case study was SO depressing. I’m glad I was able to discuss it with my class members and come a consensus as to why and how mandatory changes affect outcomes. It was good to realize that everyone felt that same way I did and we all have those similar fears as being new nurses. Nobody wants to make mistakes.
4. How I will utilize the information learned in my nursing practice:

      I can’t be afraid of mistakes. But I can minimize how many I make and what I do about it when a mistake is made. I will continue to always ask questions and utilize the resources I have. I also want to always listen to the patient and their family members. I have dealt with some helicopter children when it comes to care for their mother or father. Some nurses have been really irritated by that but I honestly am happy to answer questions over and over for them. I’m happy to listen to their concerns and talk to the doctor again about the same medication. I want to do anything and everything I can to prevent mistakes and errors by involving those people that know the patient the best.
5. My personal feelings about the material covered:

I though this week was full of beneficial information. Case studies always make an impact and I learn a lot from reading about these experiences of other people. I think it was important for me to realize that human error is a part of this practice but patient safety always needs to be the goal and I need to do everything I can to help honor and protect that.