Patient Safety Application

1.      What did I expect to learn about this topic before beginning the unit?

I was expecting to learn how I can apply patient safety concepts to my daily practice. I was interesting in learning how everything was going to come together.

2.      What I actually learned:

The case study this week allowed me to learn about the error disclosure process. I guess I didn’t realize what sort of an issue this is for patients, families, and clinicians. I didn’t really think about the fear physicians may have about embarrassment and malpractice lawsuits for errors made. It makes sense that this would be a worry just like I have some of those same worries as a nurse. But I learned that it is better to be open and honest with patients. Some may choose to go the lawsuit direction but if that is the case then at least you have been completely open and honest and that does look positive in your case. I am happy that things are changing and there are organizations out there to help clinicians and be there for support when adverse events or traumatic events happen. This is a field of work that is unique and we deal with life and death situations every single day. That is not normal. We need to have support.

The discussion reminded me of importance of following policies and procedures and helped me decide what to do when I see other coworkers not abiding by these policies. It is important to always treat and approach others with respect but being willing to take the steps necessary to help them correct their habits and use superiors if necessary.

The article I found for the literature search was unique but I was able to see how patient safety became the driving force for a change in procedure and standardization of care.

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

I enjoyed the assignments this week. I think reading about a case study like we had this week was important for us as nurses to realize what happens when errors occur and how it should be disclosed to patients as well as barriers to that disclosure. I think the discussion was successful and my group was able to come to a consensus about how to handle the situation.

4.      How I will utilize the information learned in my nursing practice:

I can remember these things and always have patients at the center of care. By doing this, full disclosure and open communication with them should be natural. It is also important to seek out what resources I have as a nurse and IMC if I need debriefing or just someone to talk to about traumatic events.

5. My personal feelings about the material covered:

Great material for the end of the semester!