Medical errors, safety and the journey to high reliability (2 December 2013)

Summary

Although many initiatives have been implemented and great strides have been achieved in improving patient safety and reducing preventable medical errors, progress towards achieving "zero" avoidable harm continues to be slow. This video presentation will address common medical errors, their recognition, potential for harm and the psychological and financial costs. The concepts of human factors, system design and the high reliability organisation will be reviewed. New approaches in reducing harm and restoring trust will be described along with the opportunity for physician leadership.

Content

After watching the video, participants should be better prepared to:

• Acquire an understanding of the concept of a "medical error".
• Appreciate the safety movement.
• Understand the culture of safety.
• Illustrate real examples of adverse events and their sequelae.
• Identify a high reliability organisation.